SUZANNE MORPHEW SHOCK AUTOPSY: SHOT WITH TRANQUILIZERS

Crime Stories with Nancy Grace

Mother's Day 2020: Mallory and Macy Morphew are on their way home from a camping trip.

They text their mother, wishing Suzanne Morphew a "Happy Mother's Day." When they don't get a reply, Mallory calls Morphew's neighbors, Martin and Jeanne Ritter, explaining she hasn't been able to reach her mother. Jeanne Ritter goes next door to look for Suzanne Morphew.

Martin Ritter calls Barry Morphew to tell him they can't find Suzanne. Barry Morphew tells Ritter to call 911. After three long years, Morphew's remains are found in Saguache County, in September 2023.

Suzanne Morphew's death has now been ruled a homicide by undetermined means. The toxicology report shows several drugs found in her system at the time of her death: Butorphanol, a synthetic opioid pain-killer, Azaperone, a sedative commonly used as a tranquilizer for pigs and elephants, and medetomidine, a sedative that can decrease an animal's heart rate, commonly used by veterinarians.

Joining Nancy Grace Today:

• Tisha Leewaye - Friend of Suzanne Morphew
• Sheryl McCollum – Forensics Expert & Cold Case Investigative Research Institute Founder; Host of Podcast: “Zone 7;” X: @149Zone7
• Chris McDonough – Director at the Cold Case Foundation, Former Homicide Detective; Host of YouTube channel: “The Interview Room”
• Joe Scott Morgan – Professor of Forensics: Jacksonville State University, Author, “Blood Beneath My Feet,” and Host: “Body Bags with Joseph Scott Morgan;” Twitter/X: @JoScottForensic
• Lauren Scharf- (CO) Journalist and Former Reporter/ X: @LaurenScharfTV

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.