Conn. medical examiner doubts genetic tests of school gunman's body will explain why he acted

Article by: Associated Press
Updated: January 11, 2013 - 9:29 AM

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Dr. Wayne Carver II, Connecticut medical examiner, speaks to the media on Saturday, December 15, 2012, about the autopsies of the victims of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

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HARTFORD, Conn. - Connecticut's chief medical examiner says he doubts toxicological tests and genetic analysis of the body of the gunman who fatally shot 20 children and six educators at an 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.

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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Information from: Connecticut Post, http://www.connpost.com