Theoretically, surgical treatments might have led to the death of a Sydney sex worker, a forensic pathologist told a court.
However, that would be exceptional, according to Allan Cala, a forensic pathology expert with NSW Health.
Enrique Valencia Hector Valencia has entered a not guilty plea to killing Kimberly McRae between January 7 and January 14, 2020, at her Coogee residence.
The 69-year-old victim’s illegal killing was admitted to by the 23-year-old Colombian citizen who was detained on the Caribbean island of Aruba and extradited to Australia. However, the Crown rejected the lighter plea before the NSW Supreme Court.
Valencia’s attorney, Claire Wasley, contends that he did not aim to murder Ms. McRae but rather hired her before “losing self-control” and punching her in the stomach and face when he learned she was 69 and transsexual.
Dr. Cala was questioned on Thursday by crown prosecutor Craig Everson SC on the assessment of a defense expert witness who put together a report claiming the cause of death was unknown.
That is something I disagree with, Dr. Cala added.
According to him, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that a compressive force on the neck resulted in an asphyxiating incident.
However, he conceded that a single blow may account for neck bruises and a fractured thyroid cartilage.
Ms. McRae did not exhibit any stroke-related symptoms, and an obstruction of the airways was ruled out. However, according to Dr. Cala, her brain had started to deteriorate and was difficult to inspect.
He did not conduct or oversee the autopsy, but he has studied the photos and notes.
In addition to the neck compression, Ms. McRae’s lower lip had abrasions that were “quite indicative” of smothering.
I believe it’s a result of both, he added.
Dr. Cala was questioned by Ms. Wasley about whether Ms. McRae’s operation to reduce the size of her adam’s apple would have left her thyroid cartilage “less strong.”
Dr. Cala remarked, “It may have occurred that way, but it would be an uncommon reason.”
I acknowledge the theoretical viability of it.
How long would it take someone to suffocate to death? was another question from Ms. Wasley.
Dr. Cala said, “Experimentation does not take place in this location.”
“From what I gather, it can really move fairly quickly.”
A suggestion that Ms. McRae’s neck was discovered to be wrapped in an electrical cable has been refuted by the defense.
Although Dr. Cala said that Ms. McRae’s wig and necklace may have prevented the development of ligature marks, none were discovered.
He acknowledged that the lack of ligature signs can potentially be the result of brief pressure application.
On Friday, the Crown hopes to wrap up its investigation.
On Monday, Valencia is most likely to start testifying via a translator in the judge-only trial before Justice Dina Yehia.
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