MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The death of Dennoriss Richardson, discovered hanging from a carport at an abandoned home, has ignited intense scrutiny following conflicting autopsy findings. A state autopsy concluded the 39-year-old Black man died by suicide, yet a private autopsy commissioned by his family disputes this assertion, highlighting the need for continued investigation.
Richardson’s body was found on September 28, 2023, prompting rapid responses from local law enforcement. Colbert County Sheriff Eric Balentine announced the ruling of suicide not long after the preliminary autopsy results returned. “They get those preliminary results back pretty quick; we had those within the week,” Balentine remarked on the timeline of the investigation, emphasizing the slow arrival of the official report, which was finalized three months later.
Despite the state’s findings, the Richardson family, whose history has been marred by mistrust of local law enforcement, pushed for additional investigation. The private report, conducted by forensic pathologist Dr. Adel Shaker, noted the absence of Richardson’s hyoid bone, which can play a significant role in determining the manner of death. Shaker called for “a thorough and careful investigation” to “rule out staged suicide,” underscoring the possibility of homicide.
Antonilla “NaNa” Richardson’s death raises important questions amid community distrust, particularly as her family is embroiled in legal battles against the Sheffield police department, alleging brutality during prior incidents of police custody. This complicated history has sparked protests as residents demand transparency. On November 23, approximately 100 members of the community marched from Sheffield City Hall to the Colbert County courthouse chanting, “Justice for NaNa.”
During the march, organizers emphasized the importance of not only seeking answers about Richardson’s death but also advocating for safety and validation of their experiences. Social worker Trinda Owens remarked on the dire need to address mental health conversations and how they intertwine with this situation.
Leigh Richardson, Dennoriss’s wife, publicly contested the state’s findings shortly after they were announced. “This is why we are fighting for the truth. This has not been easy by any means,” she stated, maintaining her belief her husband did not take his own life. The emergence of differing autopsy conclusions has fueled the demand for truth, exemplified by statements from attorney Roderick Van Daniel, who represented Richardson in his civil rights lawsuit. He expressed disbelief over how the body could be lacking the hyoid bone, which he described as “a very crucible piece of evidence to determine suicide or homicide.”
Dr. Thomas Andrew, another forensic pathologist with over four decades of experience, also weighed in, stating, “You cannot opine on manner of death based on the hyoid bone alone.” While the bone is often examined, its absence does not solely dictate the conclusion of suicide, he clarified. Andrew mentioned the importance of considering all circumstantial evidence and the investigative approach taken by law enforcement.
Upon initial discovery, the manner of death was classified as asphyxia secondary to neck compression, as noted by both autopsy reports, but the lack of circumstantial evidence raised doubts about the circumstances surrounding his death. Shaker argued, “The article/ligature rope used at the scene did not accompany the body for examination,” calling for crime scene photos and accompanying materials to be made available for scrutiny.
The sheriff has since contacted the FBI, who accepted the investigation after public outcry demanded federal transparency. Reportedly, the FBI investigation remains active. “Nothing’s changed; the official FBI investigation is still underway,” Balentine asserted, indicating continued efforts to bring clarity to the case.
Community members have expressed their fatigue over what they perceive as evasion and dishonesty from authorities. “This whole investigation is suspicious,” remarked Van Daniel echoing the sentiments of many frustrated residents. The interplay of mistrust, unresolved inquiries, and calls for justice encapsulate the broader issues affecting communities striving to overcome longstanding racial injustice.
The tussle over Dennoriss Richardson’s cause of death continues to probe the heart of the community, drawing attention to both the legal battles and the emotional ramifications for his family. They remain undeterred, determined to seek answers and demand justice, hoping the coming investigations will shed light on what they believe is more than just a tragic incident.