A deeply disturbing case in North Carolina has shocked many after investigators revealed new details about a woman accused of poisoning her own family members during a Thanksgiving gathering.
Mother Accused of Poisoning Her Daughters
Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel, 53, is facing serious charges, including first-degree murder, after one of her daughters died from poisoning. The case is being handled by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
The victim has been identified as Leela Livis, 32.
What Happened on Thanksgiving
Authorities say the incident occurred during a Thanksgiving dinner last year. Investigators believe a bottle of wine served at the gathering had been poisoned with acetonitrile, a dangerous chemical.
All three individuals who drank from the bottle—two daughters and one daughter’s boyfriend—fell ill later that night with flu-like symptoms.
Leela Livis died the following day. The second daughter reportedly consumed only a small amount and experienced milder symptoms, while the boyfriend became seriously ill and was hospitalised for several days.
Dangerous Chemical Identified
Officials confirmed that the substance used was acetonitrile, a chemical that turns into cyanide inside the body. This delayed reaction can make poisoning difficult to detect at first.
Investigators later found a container of the chemical inside the suspect’s home.
Conflicting Statements from the Accused
Casper-Leinenkugel reportedly told investigators that someone else in the house may have purchased the chemical. She also suggested that the wine bottle might have been contaminated accidentally, as it was stored near other chemicals.
However, witnesses told police that the wine bottle was already open before it was served, raising further suspicion.
Possible Link to Older Death Case
As the investigation continued, authorities reopened a 2007 death case involving a man named Michael Schmidt, who lived on the suspect’s property.
At the time, his death was considered accidental and linked to chemical exposure. However, investigators now believe the same substance—acetonitrile—may have been used in that case as well.
More Cases Under Investigation
Officials have indicated that there may be additional deaths connected to the suspect, and those cases are currently under review.
Upcoming Court Hearing
Casper-Leinenkugel is scheduled to appear in court on April 30 as the legal process moves forward.
