Tragic news has emerged regarding Suzanne Morphew's passing, as authorities have confirmed that her death was a homicide. The autopsy report, recently released by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation, sheds light on this heartbreaking development.
Based on the findings from the CBI, the investigative agencies involved in the Morphew case have concluded that her death was caused by "Homicide by undetermined means in the setting of butorphanol, azaperone, and medetomidine intoxication."
"The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and our dedicated law enforcement partners acknowledge the significant public interest in this case," stated CBI Director Chris Schaefer. "Our investigative team remains focused on following the evidence to ensure that justice is served for Suzanne's untimely death."
According to the National Institutes of Health, "Butorphanol is a synthetic opioid commonly used as a nasal spray for treating migraine headaches, and also administered parenterally as a narcotic analgesic for managing moderate-to-severe pain or as an adjunct to general anesthesia."
Furthermore, the NIH highlights the butorphanol-azaperone-medetomidine combination as a "safe, effective, and convenient protocol in bears" for purposes of "immobilization."
The remains of the missing Colorado mom, Suzanne Morphew, were discovered after nearly four years of her disappearance. She was last seen on Mother's Day, May 10, 2020, and her case had gained national attention, even being featured on the CBS News show "48 Hours."
Despite leaving behind two teenage daughters and a husband, Barry Morphew, who was not only the prime suspect in her disappearance but also charged with her murder.
The discovery of Suzanne Morphew's remains occurred during an unrelated investigation in Moffat, Saguache County. She went missing after setting out for a bike ride on Mother's Day in 2020, with the circumstances of her disappearance still shrouded in mystery. Her bicycle was found abandoned in a ravine, showing no signs of a crash or blood at the scene. Barry Morphew initially believed she had been abducted, but he was later arrested in 2021 for her murder.
Judge Dismisses Case Against Barry Morphew
In a surprising turn of events, a judge made the decision to dismiss the case against Barry Morphew in April 2022. The 11th Judicial District Attorney, Linda Stanley, filed a motion to "dismiss without prejudice," leaving open the possibility for charges to be brought against Morphew in the future.
