An unfortunate mistake during an autopsy caused immense distress to a grieving mother when her seven-year-old daughter’s tongue and throat were reattached incorrectly.
The error was discovered after the young girl’s body had already undergone embalming, a process aimed at preserving the body for an extended period. The bodies of the girl, identified by her father’s surname Lin, and her father were found together in Fangyuan Township, Changhua City.
The incident has incited anger among residents, who are seeking explanations for such a tragic oversight.
Both the girl and her father were found deceased inside a car in a local parking lot, with authorities later confirming that they passed away due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
On July 15, Lin picked up his daughter, but communication was lost shortly after with the mother, Han. Five days later, Han contacted Lin’s mother, who informed her that they had traveled to the father’s residence in another area.
When they could not be located, Han informed the police. The following day, she had to identify their bodies, where she noticed the missing body parts of her daughter. Han had been informed that the organs would be removed during the autopsy but assumed they would be returned before the funeral.
Expressing her distress, Han stated, “I never expected my daughter’s throat and tongue to be taken during the autopsy.” She was devastated to discover the missing parts while preparing for the burial and postponed the funeral to correct the error.
The coroner clarified that the organs were removed for testing toxins to ascertain the cause of death but were not placed back in time. Han is seeking accountability for the mistake and has met with local authorities who have agreed to reposition the body parts correctly.
Han expressed relief, saying, “Finally, my princess can rest in peace, whole and beautiful.”
Reflecting on her daughter’s recent kindergarten graduation, Han shared how happy and proud her daughter was, wearing a shimmering yellow princess dress with silver heels, the same attire planned for her burial.