The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

Medical officials: "non-accidental trauma" cause of death in Dykstra murder trial

Several medical officials testified Thursday in the Brian Dykstra second-degree murder trial that the death of his 20-month-old adopted child was due to "non-accidental trauma."

Doctors and other medical personnel discussed specifics of the injuries Dykstra’s son sustained while under his care in August 2005.

Catscan photos were shown and explained to the jury by UI radiology Professor Michael D’Alessandro. D’Alessandro was one doctor who said he believed non-accidental trauma was the cause of the injuries, adding it would take "massive force" to cause the injuries to the child’s brain he observed.

The defense said the injuries were caused by falling down stairs a few days prior to the child’s hospitalization.

The state will continue calling witnesses at 9 a.m. today in the Johnson County Courthouse.

— by Eric Moore

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