High levels of aspirin found in body of Lisa Marie Zahra

A court was this morning informed that a toxicology report on blood samples taken from the body of Lisa Marie Zahra has returned negative for alcohol, but reported very high levels of aspirin.

Magistrate Audrey Demicoli was presiding over the compilation of evidence against former drama teacher Erin Tanti who is accused of murdering Zahra, one of his pupils, who tragically lost her life in a fall from Dingli cliffs in March 2014.

The toxicology report, which was carried out by a British toxicologist using blood samples provided by forensic pathologist Dr. Mario Scerri, did not find any trace of alcohol in Zahra’s blood, but noted a blood salicylate level of 460mg/L, which the toxicologist described as very high, but not necessarily fatal.

The expert pointed out that aspirin was known to cause haemorraging in extremely high doses and had no effect on the mental faculties, adding however that even a small dose of asprin could prove fatal to persons allergic to the drug.

The compilation of evidence will continue on the 28th May.

Inspector Keith Arnaud is prosecuting, whilst lawyers Michael and Lucio Sciriha are defending Tanti. Lawyers Giannella de Marco and Joe Giglio are appearing in parte civile.