ME: Little Expected From Exam Of Body Of Newtown School Shooter Adam Lanza
HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) - Connecticut's chief medical examiner said he doubts toxicological tests and genetic analysis of the body of the gunman who fatally shot 20 children and six educators at a Newtown elementary school will explain his actions.
The Hearst Connecticut Media Group reported Friday that Dr. H. Wayne Carver II, who autopsied the body of the gunman Adam Lanza, said an examination of Lanza's brain showed nothing unusual.
"It's a fishing expedition,'' he said. "I don't think we'll find answers. But that doesn't mean you don't look.''
Carver said Lanza's brain showed no tumor or gross deformity, though he didn't expect to find a gross deformity.
"That would be associated with very severe disabilities,'' he said.
People who suffer from such deformities usually require a "custodial'' setting, Carver said.
The toxicology exam, which could take several weeks, involves testing body fluids for psychiatric medications or illegal substances. Carver said the result could provide "potentially valuable information'' in creating a full picture of Lanza.
Lanza fatally shot himself after the Dec. 14 shooting spree at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Lanza's body was claimed by his father on Dec. 27 and the public may never know what happened with the remains.
While still in the possession of the medical examiner, Lanza's body may have been the subject of interest beyond medical reasons.
An employee was accused of showing the body to her husband, who is not a state employee, just days after the shooting.
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