A forensic pathologist testified that the cause of death of a 12-year-old under the care of two women in Burlington, Ontario, could not be determined based on the autopsy results. Dr. Michael Pickup mentioned potential causes such as hypothermia or cardiac arrest due to severe malnourishment. The ongoing trial involves the women, Brandy Cooney and Becky Hamber, who are facing charges including first-degree murder and other offenses in connection with the boy’s death in 2022.
The autopsy did not reveal significant injuries or abnormalities on the boy’s body. It was discovered that the boy had ingested Venlafaxine pills, prescribed for depression and anxiety, in higher concentrations than typical but not at fatal levels. Given the boy’s malnourished state, malnutrition was highlighted as a likely factor in his death.
Regarding possible causes of death, including hypothermia, the pathologist explained that more details about the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death would be required for a definitive conclusion. The prosecution presented a scenario to Dr. Pickup involving a malnourished child found wet and shivering, suggesting hypothermia as a contributing factor to the death.
Throughout the trial, details emerged about the boy’s severe malnutrition and weight loss prior to his death. The defense questioned the pathologist on aspects related to hypothermia and the boy’s condition when discovered. The pathologist indicated that the boy’s wet state could have been due to being submerged in water, though the exact cause remained uncertain.
The trial, being heard by Justice Clayton Conlan in Milton, is expected to continue into November. The identity of the boy and his brother is protected under a publication ban. The case has drawn attention to the tragic circumstances surrounding the boy’s untimely death and the legal proceedings against the accused women.
