Birdsell death investigation continues
By Debbie Lowe Staff writer

Deciding what to do and how to proceed is one of the most important elements in a death investigation, according to Indiana State Police Sgt. Kim Riley. He stated that the manner in which information is managed at the beginning of a case impacts it all the way through to the end.

"A death investigation like this takes a while to put the pieces together," Riley said Tuesday.

Indiana State Police are assisting Carroll County Sheriff's Department with an April 3 death investigation of Tammy Birdsell, 42, of Flora, which occurred at 3418 S. CR 200 E., near Bringhurst.

Riley remarked that good teamwork is critical. Carroll County Prosecutor Tricia Thompson, sheriff's investigator Steve Mullin and ISP Master Trooper Investigator Blaine Butler are working to connect all the dots to be thorough.

"They want to tie their loose ends together," Riley added. "They are working hard to get the pieces together to be able to determine what course of action to take."

Carroll County received the call at approximately 3:09 a.m. and found Birdsell deceased at the residence of Dan Fassnacht. Preliminary investigation revealed Birdsell died of a single gunshot wound. Subjects at the scene are being interviewed at this time but the investigation is continuing.

"Ultimately, the prosecutor makes the final decision of what way she wants to take the case," Riley concluded.

Contact Riley at (765) 567- 2125 or the Thompson at (765) 564-4514 with information.