Forensic Pathologist’s Testimony in Daniel Penny Trial Supports Claim Jordan Neely Did Not Die of Chokehold
Defense lawyers brought in a forensic pathologist to testify about the potential factors contributing to Neely’s death.
NEW YORK CITY—During the trial of former Marine Daniel Penny, Dr. Satish Chundru, a forensic pathologist, was called to provide expert testimony on the cause of Jordan Neely’s death on May 1, 2023, on a New York subway.
Under questioning from defense attorney Steven Raiser, Chundru explained his view on the potential causes of Neely’s death, highlighting factors such as schizophrenia, drugs in his system, sickle cell disease, and the chokehold.
He criticized Harris’s analysis, emphasizing the importance of considering all possible factors in a thorough forensic examination.
Chundru debunked the notion of a chokehold death occurring without specific conditions, including the victim losing consciousness and sustained pressure on the neck.
Sickle Cell Complications
Chundru discussed how the body reacts differently to stress in individuals with sickle cell conditions, indicating that certain stressors could trigger adverse reactions due to altered blood cell shapes.
He described Neely’s severe sickling response to stress from Penny’s hold, affecting oxygen delivery to tissues and causing a crisis in the blood vessels.
Chundru analyzed video footage to dispute claims of Neely losing consciousness, pointing out signs of continued struggle between Neely and Penny. He estimated the timing of Neely’s death during the altercation.
Attributing Neely’s death to a combination of factors, including sickle cell crisis, schizophrenia, struggle, restraint, and synthetic marijuana, Chundru refuted the idea that Penny choked Neely to death.
The trial is set to resume on Nov. 22 with additional testimony.
