A forensic pathologist testified in defense of Daniel Penny, disputing claims that Penny’s chokehold caused the death of Jordan Neely, who died after being restrained on a New York subway.

Dr. Satish Chundru argued Neely’s death resulted from a combination of factors, including synthetic marijuana use, schizophrenia, and a blood condition, rather than the chokehold.

This contrasts with the city medical examiner’s determination that Neely died from asphyxiation due to the chokehold.

Penny, a Marine veteran, has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and claims he acted in self-defense to protect passengers, the Associated Press has reported.

The case has sparked debate over race, mental health, and self-defense boundaries.

Written by B.C. Begley