Autopsy Error Complicates Walmart Stabbing Death Case
SAVANNAH, GA – A critical error involving the body of JT Schroeder, who died following a stabbing outside a Whitemarsh Island Walmart in October, has raised concerns about the upcoming criminal case against Delano Middleton, 48, the alleged perpetrator. Chatham County authorities confirm Schroeder, stabbed during a fight on Highway 80, succumbed to his injuries at Memorial Health after five days on life support. However, due to a “miscommunication,” the hospital mistakenly authorized the body’s cremation instead of releasing it for an autopsy, a procedure crucial for establishing cause of death in criminal investigations.
The mishap, described as “astounding” by veteran criminal trial attorney Michael Schiavone, could substantially impact the prosecution’s ability to prove the killing was unlawful “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The chatham County coroner and the Georgia Bureau of Inquiry (GBI) both had holds on Schroeder’s body prior to the error.
Memorial Health has acknowledged the mistake and stated it is reviewing its procedures and staff training to prevent future incidents. “the loss of a loved one is never easy,and we have processes in place to ensure proper handling of the deceased in our care,” a hospital spokesperson said. “in the event these processes are not followed, we review our training and documentation with staff and work closely with external agencies to prevent similar issues.”
Schiavone explained the state may attempt to utilize testimony from doctors who treated Schroeder before his death to establish a cause of death. Though, he also noted the defense could perhaps leverage the lack of an autopsy to argue self-defense, citing reports of earlier altercations between Schroeder and Middleton and a potential physical disparity between the two men.
The District Attorney’s office has not yet commented on how the error will affect the case. Schiavone added that those responsible for the mistake could face a civil suit for damages.
