CA v. Robert Durst Murder Trial Day 2 - Mark Fajardo - Forensic Pathologist

TL;DR

Forensic pathologist testifies about autopsy findings and procedures in a murder trial.

Transcript

nope almost back in session uh we don't really only have one public seat so that the public has a right to view trials so we have a system where people can can tune in and listen to the proceedings so it's uh anyway that we we welcome those folks our jurisan uh and alternates are all present mr durst is present with his lawyers mr lewin and the pro... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎭 The witness has extensive experience as a forensic pathologist and has performed over 7,000 autopsies.
• 🥼 Autopsies involve external and internal examinations, documentation of photographs and notes, and lab analysis of fluids and samples.
• 🤘 The witness accessed the file for the Susan Berman case, reviewed the autopsy report and photographs, and formed independent opinions regarding cause of death and signs of trauma.
• ❤️‍🔥 The witness's expertise includes determining the range of fire in gunshot wounds.
• 😷 The chief medical examiner oversees procedures and reviews autopsy reports for accuracy.
• 🏪 Autopsy files are stored and accessed using unique coroner's case numbers.
• ❓ The witness testifies as an expert in forensic pathology and has testified in both federal and state courts.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the main duties of a forensic pathologist during an autopsy?

The pathologist performs external and internal examinations of the body, documents findings with photographs and notes, collects fluids and tissue samples for lab analysis, and determines the cause and manner of death.

Q: How does a forensic pathologist determine the range of fire in a gunshot wound?

The pathologist examines the wound and assesses the distance between the firearm and the body at the time of discharge by analyzing characteristics of the wound, such as gunshot residue and tissue damage.

Q: How are autopsy reports and photographs stored and accessed?

Each case is assigned a unique coroner's case number, and all reports, photographs, and notes are filed in the corresponding case file. The chief medical examiner has authorized access to these files.

Q: Did the witness face any pressure to form specific opinions in the Susan Berman case?

No, the witness stated that he formed independent opinions after reviewing the file and did not feel pressured to make any specific conclusions.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The witness is a forensic pathologist who serves as the chief medical examiner in Riverside and Los Angeles County.

• He reviews the procedures followed during an autopsy, including external and internal examinations, documentation of photographs and notes, and lab analysis of fluids and samples.

• The witness accessed the file for the Susan Berman case, reviewed the autopsy report and photographs, and formed independent opinions regarding cause of death and signs of trauma.