Following the death of two patients in the hospital of Kirchdorf an der Krems (Upper Austria), the Steyr Public Prosecutor’s Office is now investigating an anesthetist at the clinic on suspicion of murder by gross negligence. It is now clear which drug was involved.
Initially, the doctor was ‘only’ investigated for negligent homicide. “The tightening is based on a review of currently available documents and the first written reports from the police. “It was not a single piece of evidence that was responsible for the decision, but rather we got a complete picture,” explains Steyr Public Prosecutor’s Office spokeswoman Melanie Kurz.
Toxicology report must provide clarity
The doctor, who has since been dismissed, is suspected of having caused the deaths of the two male patients with an incorrect dosage of the morphine “Vendal”. He is presumed innocent. An autopsy was carried out on Monday on the patient who died last Friday in the hospital’s intensive care unit – he was almost 90 years old. A massive skull fracture with brain bleeding was discovered, which the man suffered in an accident before being taken to hospital.
Up to three years in prison
“Whether this skull fracture with cerebral hemorrhage is the cause of death or an overdose of the drug can only be clarified by a toxicology report,” Kurz said. “It will probably take four to six weeks before the report is available.” If the suspicion of incorrect dosing is confirmed and charges are filed, the anesthesiologist could face up to three years in prison if convicted.
Same medication
A second man, in his mid-60s, who died in Kirchdorf Hospital in recent weeks, was also under the doctor’s care. He was also given the drug “Vendal”. However, the dead man’s body has already been cremated. Apparently there is blood present that has been seized and can still be examined.
Source: Krone
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