What happened
In December a 32 year old doctor, Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez, was found dead inside a walk in freezer at a Dollar Tree store in Little Havana, Miami. She had entered the store the night before and made no purchases. Employees only areas were where she was discovered. Authorities initially said no foul play was suspected.
Cause of death
The Miami Dade County Medical Examiner ruled the cause of death environmental hypothermia. The report listed ethanol use, meaning alcohol, as a contributing factor. Hypothermia can occur when the body loses heat faster than it can make it. The office released the finding this week after completing its review of the case.
Toxicology results
Toxicology showed an ethanol level of 0.112 percent. That level is above many legal driving limits in the United States and indicates impairment. Medical experts explained that alcohol can increase the risk of hypothermia by reducing the body’s ability to regulate temperature and by causing confusion or disorientation.
Who she was
Her family said she was Dr Helen Garay, a Nicaraguan trained anesthesiologist who specialized in congenital heart disease for children. The family described her as a devoted mother of two who worked to help sick young patients. They have started a GoFundMe to bring her home to Nicaragua for a proper funeral and final resting place.
Investigation and questions
Authorities say the death remains classified as an accident and that investigators found no signs of trauma. The case raises questions about access to employee only areas and about how a person in distress might be missed after entering a store late at night. Officials do not report any criminal suspects and the medical examiner’s finding is the official cause of death.
Further coverage
Local and national outlets reported the story. Authorities and the family provided statements to clarify facts. Media reports cite the medical examiner and family sources for key details today.
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