Forensics Services Laboratory Report
Mississippi State Crime Lab
Jackson, MS 39216
Yoknapatawpha County Sheriff's Department
Oxford Mississippi
CAPS/Homicide Division
Detective Sam Murphy
Case #: 000133-14A-2002
Victim(s): Andrea Gayle Stover
Certificate of Analysis: 02-3101
Date: 3/08/02
Examiner: Francis K. Dupin
Forensic Report
CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS
SUMMARY REPORT
Analysis of Blood and Urine:
The victim's serum sample was subjected to ion chromatography/mass spectrometry.
A peak at 89.2 m/z, subsequently identified as oxalate, was detected at
~5X the normal (~0.16mcg/ml) serum concentration.
A portion of the victim's urine sample was then subjected to a colorimetric
oxalate test. If oxalate is present, it reacts with oxalate oxidase in
the presence of oxygen to form hydrogen peroxide and carbon dioxide. The
hydrogen peroxide further reacts with two chemicals (MBTH and DMAB) to
form an indamine dye that is detected at 590nm. Oxalate concentration
in the urine was determined to be 73mg/L. Calcium oxalate crystals were
also apparent after microscopic examination of the urine.
Conclusion:
Both the blood and urine analysis revealed a higher than normal presence
of oxalate in the system.While an abnormally high level of oxalate is
present in the victims system, it is not at such a concentration
to cause death. Oxalic acid (oxalate) is found in plants such as rhubarb,
spinach and beets. Furthermore, ethylene glycol, if ingested, is metabolized
to oxalic acid (oxalate).
ATTEST
I certify that I performed the above analysis and explanation and that
the above is an accurate summary of the analysis results.
//Francis K. Dupin
Forensic Scientist
Senior Examiner
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