Coroner rules 39-year-old Lexington woman's death natural, citing heart condition and mental health crisis

Key points

Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher ruled that Elena Katherine Moore died of natural causes stemming from complications of cardiac dysrhythmia with premature ventricular contractions.

Moore, 39, was found dead on June 17 near Old Cherokee Road and North Lake Drive, six days after being reported missing on June 12.

Fisher stated the autopsy found no evidence of traumatic injuries, broken bones, strangulation, or sexual assault.

Moore had been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility on June 5 for an 'unspecified psychosis' and 'full mental crisis' but was released on June 11.

Fisher noted that Moore's prescribed heart medication was not detected in her toxicology report, despite claims by the facility that it was administered.

Moore's husband, Brannon Slice, was never considered a suspect or person of interest in the investigation.

Background

This case follows a pattern of high-profile deaths in South Carolina involving mental health and substance issues, such as the recent coroner's report on Hayden Panettiere. However, unlike those cases, Moore's death was ruled natural rather than accidental or homicide. The timeline of her disappearance and death occurred during a period of severe weather in the region, though heat was cited as a contributing factor to her toxicology results.

How outlets are covering it

WIS and Fox News both reported the coroner's findings, emphasizing the natural cause of death and the lack of criminal involvement by Moore's husband. Fox News highlighted Fisher's defense of Slice, noting his efforts to get his wife help. WIS focused on the details of Moore's final movements, including her visit to a CVS and Planet Fitness. WACH provided the initial announcement of the press conference but did not detail the findings in the provided text. All sources agree on the lack of traumatic injuries and the natural cause of death, but Fox News placed greater emphasis on the mental health facility's role in her release.

Why it matters

The case highlights the intersection of mental health crises and physical health conditions, raising questions about the adequacy of care in mental health facilities. Fisher's comments suggest that better management of Moore's heart medication and mental health could have prevented her death. The case also underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues in the community, as Fisher urged the public to focus on supporting those suffering from mental illness.

What to watch

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has closed its missing persons case, but it is unclear if the investigation into Moore's death has been fully closed. WIS has reached out to SLED for more information. The case may lead to further scrutiny of the mental health facility's practices and the handling of Moore's medical and mental health needs.