SeaWorld Trainer Died of Drowning, Trauma
An autopsy shows that a SeaWorld Orlando trainer attacked by a killer whale died of drowning and blunt-force trauma to her head, neck and torso.
The autopsy report released Wednesday lists Dawn Brancheau's official cause of death as drowning and traumatic injuries. The medical examiner's office ruled her death an accident. Toxicology tests found no drugs in her system.
A killer whale named Tilikum snatched the 40-year-old trainer from a poolside platform in its jaws and thrashed her around underwater, killing her in front of a horrified audience in February. It marked the third time the whale had been involved in a death.
More coverage of the SeaWorld tragedy
Worker: "Whale Would Not Let Us Have Her"
SeaWorld Trainer Mourned in Chicago
Whale Attack Renews Captive Animal Debate
Tears Flow as Whale Shows Resume
SeaWorld Called Best Place for Tilikum
Whale, Trainer Play on Film Before Attack
SeaWorld Defends Serial Killer Whale
SeaWorld: The Show Must Go On
Ex-SeaWorld Official: Trainer Made Mistake
Dawn Brancheau's Last Moments Alive
SeaWorld Trainer Embraced Risks of Job