'Death by homicide': Autopsy results released in 'high-profile' Suzanne Morphew case

On April 29, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation released autopsy results related to the death of Suzanne Morphew, whose high-profile disappearance on Mother's Day of 2020 presumably out of the Colorado mountain town of Salida sparked a media storm and was followed by the arrest of her husband, Barry Morphew, as a suspect in the case.

Charges against Barry Morphew were later dropped in April 2022, with Suzanne Morphew still considered missing at that time. Her remains were later found in September of 2023 in Saguache County while law enforcement was investigating another case, with a positive identification that followed the discovery confirming her death.

Today, nearly four years after her May 10, 2020 death, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation has released the results of the autopsy conducted on Suzanee Morphew's remains, revealing that her cause of death was "homicide by undetermined means in the setting of butorphanol, azaperone, and medetomidine intoxication." This chemical compound is commonly used for tranquilizing animals .

Homicide was already suspected by many in the case, as Suzanne's body was located in a shallow grave when it was found. It's unclear whether or not the autopsy findings will put suspicion back on Barry Morphew, who previously told investigators that he used those same chemicals in his process to remove antlers from deer, per reporting from the Denver Gazette . Many dealing with tranquilizing wildlife turn to this compound , known as BAM, as it is described as a "low-volume, reversible alternative" compared to other options, "ideal for most species of deer."

“The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and our law enforcement partners understand and appreciate the public interest surrounding this case, said CBI Director Chris Schaefer. “The investigative team assembled to work this case continues to follow the evidence and only the evidence as we seek justice for Suzanne’s death.”

The investigation into the case continues.

STAY INFORMED: Get free Colorado news with our daily newsletter (Click here)