Coroner’s preliminary findings from Brittany Murphy autopsy
6:55 pm, December 21st, 2009
UPDATE
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UPDATE — 6:54PM
According to the L.A. Coroner’s office, the autopsy was completed today — as it was scheduled to be — and there were no signs of trauma or foul play.
We’re told one could not outwardly point to anything that would “look” like a factor in her Murphy’s death.
The cause of her passing, as previously noted, will hinge on the results of the neuropathology, histopathology and, most importantly, toxicology tests. The findings should become public in around 6 or so weeks.
No arrangements for Murphy’s funeral have been set as of now.
While trying to be informational, it still saddens Gossip Cop, who met Murphy on a few occasions, to report on the young actress’ untimely demise.
UPDATE — 1:58PM
As Gossip Cop reported earlier, Brittany Murphy’s body is currently undergoing an autopsy. An official in the L.A. Coroner’s office tells us that the entire exam will be completed today.
However, three other tests — neuropathology, histopathology and toxicology — upon which the cause of death will most likely be determined will not be complete for another “six to eight weeks.”
Neuropathology is the study of disease in the nervous system, and is tested by biopsies of the brain and spinal cord; histopathology requires studying biopsies of body tissue for disease; and toxicology tests the effects of chemicals on the body.
The official from the Coroner’s office added that, until the result from the three tests are completed, the office “will release no information.”
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Following the tragic death yesterday of Brittany Murphy, an official in the L.A. Coroner’s office confirmed to Gossip Cop that an autopsy could begin as early as today, and now comes word that it has already begun.
The autopsy will determine what lead to Murphy’s cardiac arrest and subsequent death.
As previously reported, Murphy was severely ill shortly before her death, and had been on prescription medication for “flu-like symptoms.” The actress had been heavily vomiting earlier in the morning, reported TMZ, which had a source saying, “There were a… lot of prescriptions in the house.”
The autopsy will determine what, if any, role the meds played in her death.
Assistant Chief Coroner Ed Winter says it will be weeks before there’s a conclusive answer.
Gossip Cop will keep you posted as more details emerge.
Follow @GossipCop on Twitter, and check GossipCop.com for updates.
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