A Doctor's Death by Central Chest Stabbing - Suicide or Murder?

Abstract

Although the function of a coronial inquest is to determine the time, manner and cause of death, in cases of an unexpected or suspicious death or putative suicide, the coroner relies upon an analysis of the evidence collected from the death scene and the autopsy and any toxicology report. Particularly in cases of suspected suicide in which the decedent had a history of depression or alcohol abuse, the initial investigation should include a comparison of the statements from family members and witnesses and also from any medical practitioner the decedent attended before death. In the case of Dr Karen Mahlo, her ex-de-facto partner, who was the principal beneficiary of her considerable estate, reported finding her lying on her bed with a large kitchen knife imbedded in her central chest. The evidence given during the subsequent coronial inquest raises many questions about the time, manner and cause of Dr Mahlo's death. A further inquest should be convened.