This forensic toxicology report, issued by Axis Forensic Toxicology on May 20, 2024, details the analytical results for decedent Kyre C. Baker (date of death 05/05/2024). Two specimens were examined: femoral (GRT) blood (specimen 41180690) and vitreous/eye fluid (specimen 41180694). The blood sample was screened with the 70510 Comprehensive Drug Panel and a volatiles analysis, while the vitreous sample underwent a volatiles screen only. Key findings in blood include: ethanol 0.026 % w/v (positive), amphetamine 1,144 ng/mL and methamphetamine 2,993 ng/mL (both positive and above therapeutic/reference limits), nortriptyline 287 ng/mL (positive, at the upper limit of the reference range), delta‑9 THC 1.3 ng/mL and delta‑8 THC 17.1 ng/mL (both positive; the method cannot differentiate delta‑8 from delta‑9 carboxy‑THC). Qualitative positives for cotinine and nicotine were reported but not confirmed by an alternate method. All other drug classes screened (analgesics, anesthetics, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, antifungals, antihistamines, antipsychotics, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cardiovasculars, gastrointestinals, hallucinogens, miscellaneous, muscle relaxants, opioid analgesics, sedative/hypnotics, stimulants) were negative. The vitreous/eye specimen was negative for all volatiles (methanol, ethanol, acetone, isopropanol). The report was addressed to the Butler County, Ohio Coroner, includes case numbers, collection timestamps, and notes that specimens will be retained for at least one year. Laboratory Director George S. Behonick, Ph.D., signed the report. Reference ranges are cited from Schulz et al., 2012.
Topics
Blood Volatile Analysis – Low‑Level Ethanol Detection
Quantitative measurement of ethanol at 0.026 % w/v in femoral blood, indicating low‑level alcohol presence at the time of death.
Stimulant Profile – Amphetamine and Methamphetamine Concentrations
High concentrations of amphetamine (1,144 ng/mL) and methamphetamine (2,993 ng/mL) far exceeding typical therapeutic ranges, suggesting recent or chronic stimulant use.
Antidepressant Finding – Nortriptyline Level Near Upper Therapeutic Limit
Nortriptyline measured at 287 ng/mL, positioned at the upper bound of the reference range (20‑200 ng/mL), indicating possible therapeutic dosing or accumulation.
Cannabinoid Panel – Delta‑8 and Delta‑9 THC Presence with Methodological Caveat
Positive detection of delta‑9 THC (1.3 ng/mL) and delta‑8 THC (17.1 ng/mL); note that the assay cannot distinguish delta‑8 from delta‑9 carboxy‑THC, introducing interpretive uncertainty.
Qualitative Nicotine/Cotinine Positives – Unconfirmed by Alternate Method
Cotinine and nicotine reported as qualitatively positive, but lacking confirmation from a secondary analytical technique, limiting evidentiary weight.
Vitreous/Eye Volatile Screen – All Analytes Negative
Comprehensive volatile analysis of vitreous/eye fluid showed no detectable methanol, ethanol, acetone, or isopropanol, contrasting with the low‑level ethanol found in blood.
Reporting Framework – Chain of Custody, Case Numbers, and Retention Policy
Details of specimen identifiers, collection timestamps, client and agency case numbers, reporting dates, and a statement that specimens will be retained for at least one year.
Reference Range Context – Literature‑Based Therapeutic and Toxic Thresholds
Reference ranges cited from Schulz et al., 2012, providing clinical context for interpreting quantitative drug concentrations.