Medical Examiner Testifies in Birchmore Murder Trial
Autopsy evidence suggests Sandra Birchmore's body was moved after her death, according to testimony from the medical examiner.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Medical examiner Maria Capo Martinez testified that evidence in the death of 23-year-old Sandra Birchmore indicates her body may have been moved. Matthew Farwell is currently on trial for the murder of Birchmore, who was found dead in Canton in 2021.
Why it matters
The testimony challenges previous conclusions about the death, which was initially ruled a suicide before the medical examiner updated the death certificate to undetermined. Federal investigators now contend that evidence points to a homicide rather than self-inflicted harm.
Medical examiner Maria Capo Martinez changed the official cause of death on the death certificate from suicide to undetermined following an FBI investigation. The trial in Boston continues with testimony regarding discrepancies in the scene report.
The players
Maria Capo Martinez
She is the medical examiner who testified about the autopsy findings and the change to the death certificate.
Sandra Birchmore
She was the 23-year-old woman found dead in Canton in 2021.
Matthew Farwell
He is the defendant currently on trial for the murder of Sandra Birchmore.
William Farwell
He is an officer accused of having sexual relations with Birchmore who is scheduled to testify.
The details
Testimony highlighted inconsistencies in initial reports, as officers in Canton recorded different items—a scarf and a nylon strap—around the victim's neck. The medical examiner also noted the removal of the hyoid bone in October 2024 to further aid the federal investigation into the death.
Timeline
February 4, 2021: Sandra Birchmore's body was discovered in Canton.
May 2021: The original death certificate was signed.
August 16, 2024: The FBI met with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner regarding murder findings.
August 26, 2024: Matthew Farwell was arrested.
October 2024: The medical examiner removed the hyoid bone from the victim.
Legal Context
This case marks a judicial re-examination of the 2021 death of Sandra Birchmore in Canton by presenting new forensic evidence to contest the original ruling. It highlights the role of federal courts in reviewing local death investigations when foul play is suspected.
The trial serves as a significant update for residents regarding the ongoing investigation into the death of Sandra Birchmore. Local community members can follow the court proceedings to understand the developments in the case against Matthew Farwell.
The takeaway
The ongoing trial underscores the importance of secondary autopsy reviews in cases where initial findings are contested. Transparency in forensic reporting is vital for ensuring that victims' families and the public can trust the accuracy of death investigations.
What happens next
William Farwell is scheduled to testify in the ongoing trial on Tuesday.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit Boston Sex Crimes.
