Autopsy Findings - Hyoid Fractures & Physical Evidence in Epstein Death

AUTOPSY REPORT SUMMARY — JEFFREY EPSTEIN New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner Medical Examiner: Dr. Barbara Sampson, Chief Medical Examiner Date of Death: August 10, 2019 Autopsy Date: August 11, 2019 Ruling: Suicide by hanging FINDINGS: NYC Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Barbara Sampson ruled Epstein's death a suicide by hanging. The official cause of death was listed as hanging, and the manner of death was ruled suicide. KEY DETAILS: - Epstein was found unresponsive in his cell at approximately 6:30 AM on August 10, 2019 - He was transported to New York-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital - He was pronounced dead at the hospital - Autopsy performed on August 11, 2019 - Multiple fractures were noted in the hyoid bone and thyroid cartilage HYOID BONE FRACTURES: The finding of hyoid bone fractures generated public discussion, as such fractures can occur in both hanging and strangulation. Dr. Sampson stated that the fractures were consistent with hanging and that the totality of evidence supported the suicide ruling. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden, hired by the Epstein family, stated that the fractures were more consistent with homicidal strangulation, though other forensic experts disagreed. Source: NYC OCME Available at: https://www.nyc.gov/site/ocme/