By Gavin Fish, February 26, 2024
Recent court testimonies have intensified scrutiny on the original autopsy findings in Amanda Wienckowski’s death, with substantial evidence suggesting she was murdered rather than dying from an accidental overdose. Despite independent pathologists confirming strangulation marks, the official cause of death remains unchanged, fueling ongoing efforts by Amanda’s family to seek justice.
The ongoing investigation into Amanda Wienckowski’s death has taken another twist with recent court testimonies raising serious questions about the original autopsy findings. Amanda’s body was discovered in January 2009, naked and frozen in a trash can, with initial autopsy reports citing an accidental opioid overdose as the cause of death. However, this conclusion has been hotly contested by her family and independent pathologists.
Dr. Diane Vertes, the medical examiner who conducted the initial autopsy, has stood by her findings despite substantial evidence to the contrary. Photos and subsequent examinations revealed significant bruising and strangulation marks on Amanda’s neck, as well as marks consistent with a stun gun. These findings have led many to believe that Amanda was murdered, rather than having succumbed to an overdose.
Lesly Brill Meserole Amanda’s mother, has tirelessly campaigned for justice, going so far as to have Amanda’s body exhumed for a second autopsy. This second examination, conducted by Dr. Sylvia Cabrini, strongly suggested that Amanda was strangled to death, a conclusion ignored by Dr. Vertes. Despite these findings, the official cause of death remains unchanged, attributed to an acute opioid overdose.
Further complicating the case, Dr. Vertes testified recently in a separate trial, where she revealed she had retired from her post due to pressure from county officials regarding her findings in another controversial case. This admission has cast further doubt on the integrity of her conclusions in Amanda’s case.
Adding to the family’s frustration, legal efforts to force a change in the cause of death through a lawsuit have failed, largely due to procedural technicalities. Despite the overwhelming evidence and expert testimonies suggesting homicide, the case remains officially closed as an accidental overdose.
Amanda’s family and supporters continue to fight for justice, advocating for the case to be reopened and properly investigated. The persistence of Amanda’s family, particularly her mother, serves as a testament to their unyielding quest for the truth and justice for Amanda.
