Dawn Brancheau update: Autopsy released in death of SeaWorld trainer killed by whale
On Wednesday, the final autopsy report regarding the death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau was released, confirming her death was due to drowning and several traumatic injuries.
The report from the Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner’s Office stated that Brancheau suffered “blunt force” trauma to her head, neck, and torso and indicates she eventually drowned after a killer whale pulled her into the water last month.
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Just prior to a show, as a small audience looked on, Brancheau’s ponytail was grabbed by the 12,000-pound orca whale nicknamed “Tilly,” who pulled her into the water.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, the autopsy demonstrates how violently the whale attacked Brancheau—removing her scalp and detaching her left arm during the incident. Additionally, she suffered fractures to her back, ribs, legs, arms, and face.
The medical examiner also found fluid in Brancheau’s lungs, indicative of drowning. No drugs were found in her system.
The Sentinel reports that SeaWorld declined to comment on the autopsy, but spokesperson Baca Bides said the park hopes the media gives the trainer’s family the “respect and humanity they deserve.”
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