Overview
- Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel, 52, was arrested Jan. 16 and is held without bond on two first-degree murder counts, two attempted first-degree murder counts, and three counts of distributing a prohibited food or beverage.
- Authorities allege victims’ beverages were tainted with acetonitrile, a solvent that can convert to cyanide and cause delayed toxicity, according to arrest warrants.
- The charges include the 2025 death of Leela Livis, identified by state investigators as Casper-Leinenkugel’s daughter, and the 2007 killing of Michael Schmidt in Henderson County.
- Investigators also accuse Casper-Leinenkugel of attempting to kill Richard Pegg and Mia Lacey, who were allegedly exposed during the 2025 incident.
- The SBI says there is no ongoing public threat as the investigation continues, with a probable cause hearing set for Feb. 20 and additional details withheld to protect the case.