A second autopsy conducted in Thailand on the body of 27-year-old vlogger Bowornthat Pengsuk, widely known as Hlun Solo, has revealed a potential cause of death as heart failure. However, officials have emphasized that poisoning has not been definitively ruled out, pending further investigation and the availability of crucial test results from Georgia, where the initial autopsy was performed.
Thai Autopsy Findings
The deputy director of Thailand’s Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS), Dr. Worawee Waiyawut, stated that the examination of Hlun Solo’s body found no evidence of assault or significant damage to internal organs. The autopsy did, however, identify a slight abnormality in the heart, which could indicate heart failure as the cause of death. This finding offers a potential explanation for the vlogger’s sudden demise.
Despite these findings, Dr. Worawee noted limitations in the second autopsy. The condition of the body had changed since its initial examination, and critically, blood samples were unavailable. Blood tests are essential for detecting poisons and identifying evidence of gas inhalation, both of which remain possibilities.
To address this gap, the CIFS has formally requested blood test information from the authorities in Georgia, where the first autopsy took place. This data is considered vital for a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding Hlun Solo’s death.
Ongoing Investigations and Potential Causes
The CIFS is actively pursuing several lines of inquiry. While the stomach showed no abnormalities or food residue, a small amount of food was present in the initial part of the intestine. Samples have been collected for substance testing, with results expected at a later date. This testing aims to identify any ingested toxins or unusual substances.
Furthermore, the institute is conducting an in-depth analysis of Hlun Solo’s hair. This is to screen for the presence of drugs, although initial assessments suggested no immediate traces. Comprehensive drug testing results are anticipated within a few weeks.
Another area of investigation involves the possibility of genetic conditions that could lead to Sudden Unexplained Nocturnal Death Syndrome (SUNDS). The CIFS plans to complete genetic testing to determine if such a condition might have contributed to the vlogger’s death.
Officials faced challenges in assessing the possibility of coronary artery disease during the Thai autopsy. This was because the arteries had reportedly been removed for examination during the initial autopsy in Georgia.
Information Sought from Georgia
Dr. Worawee expressed hope that information from Georgia would shed further light on the case. Specifically, the CIFS is seeking details regarding the conditions at the place of death, the results of blood tests for potential poisoning, and findings from the examination of vital organs conducted during the first autopsy.
The forensic physician also indicated that Hlun Solo’s relatives appeared reasonably satisfied with the outcomes of the autopsy performed in Thailand.
Absence of Physical Assault Evidence
In parallel with the autopsy, the CIFS confirmed on Thursday afternoon that there were no visible wounds or any indications of physical assault on the body. A computed tomography (CT) scan also did not reveal any broken bones or signs consistent with fatal violence, reinforcing the initial assessment that the death was not a result of external physical trauma.
The institute reiterated that the use of formalin for body preservation in Georgia could potentially affect the accuracy of certain tests, particularly for poisons and some other substances, during a subsequent autopsy. Nevertheless, the possibility of poisoning remains under consideration until all relevant examinations are concluded and their results are analyzed.
Background of the Incident
Hlun Solo, whose real name was Bowornthat Pengsuk, was reportedly discovered deceased in a hotel room in Tbilisi, Georgia, on July 14. Georgian police officially confirmed his death on July 29, two days after his family had made a public appeal for information regarding his whereabouts. The family had last heard from him on July 13, shortly after his arrival in Georgia. He had traveled to the Caucasus nation to gather content for his popular solo budget-travel video series.
The initial autopsy in Georgia and the subsequent preservation treatment have added layers of complexity to the ongoing investigation in Thailand. The CIFS is working diligently to piece together the events leading up to Hlun Solo’s death, aiming to provide definitive answers to his family and the public.
