Page 39 of Raging Inferno

The pause was so long that Presley wasn’t sure she would answer. Finally, Dr. Anders spun her chair around and grabbed a plastic anatomical head. It came apart in the center to show the inner workings. “There are several ways. The most significant factor is the presence of soot deposits in the mouth, throat, trachea, and bronchial tubes.” She pointed to each area as she said them. “The particles get trapped in the airways when someone inhales. See the difference?” She showed them the side without the soot. “That means they were breathing when the fire started.”

“They were alive then?”

“Yes. Without getting too technical, there are other criteria we look for, including visible burns in the mouth to suggest direct exposure to smoke on the tongue, larynx, etcetera. Blood is another key. If it’s cherry red, there is the presence of carbon monoxide poison, often associated with smoke inhalation. Toxicological analysis will determine the level of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood. If the concentration is more than fifty percent, it indicates that the person died in the fire. Lung tissue is analyzed by microscope to reveal damage.”

Well, there were certainly many ways to come to that conclusion. Presley felt foolish for asking.

“We also use forensic toxicology to establish if other potential toxins are present in the body.”

“When will you have those results?” Dominic asked.

Dr. Anders sighed. “As you know, nothing happens quickly, Captain Bianchi. Expect four to six weeks.”

Much too long. “You didn’t find any marks on the body that would suggest a struggle or perhaps bondage?” Presley questioned.

Dr. Anders looked at her askance. “None.”

“What about needle marks?”

“You’re wondering if they were drugged?”

“Yes.”

“There were no suspicious marks on any of the bodies.”

“Do you have extra samples from the victims?”

“Of course. Why?”

“Dominic mentioned I work for a security firm. Would it be possible to send them samples so they can fast-track the testing? They’ll have results in a matter of hours instead of weeks.”

Dr. Anders studied her. “Why?”

“I’m not convinced the deaths are accidental.”

“As Captain Bianchi could tell you, fire is a significant cause of mortality around the world, and a substantial majority are accidents.”

“There are other factors involved.” Presley didn’t want to get into their history, but she would if necessary.

“I’m sorry. I can’t just turn over samples to an unknown entity. That’s unethical. I’m afraid I must refuse.”

Presley took out a business card and handed it to her. “I assure you, we are legitimate. I’ll have my office call you to discuss the details.”

Dr. Anders took the card. “I’d like to know why you think there is something nefarious about the deaths. It’s tragic, but nothing suggests foul play. The science doesn’t support it.”

Presley stood. “Margy Binder and Nancy Babcock were close from a young age. Another of their friends perished in a fire years ago. It’s too suspect that they would die the same way, days apart.”

“I don’t know what to tell you. Sometimes, coincidences do happen.”

“Um,” was all Presley managed.

Always the polite one, Dominic said, “Thank you for your time, Dr. Anders.”

Presley echoed the sentiment, and they left her office.

“Did I totally piss her off?” Presley wanted to know as they climbed into the vehicle.

Dominic chuckled. “Let’s just say I doubt she’ll be calling your office and leaving a glowing review.”

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