An Ohio woman who died after she was tear-gassed and pepper-sprayed by police during a George Floyd protest succumbed to natural causes, her autopsy revealed.
Sarah Grossman, 22, died two days after participating in a protest in Columbus on May 28, when she was exposed to tear gas and pepper spray discharged to control the crowds, the Dayton Daily News reported.
Reports that Grossman’s death may be the result of tear gas exposure spread online after her sister suggested the possibility on Instagram before editing the post, news station WBNS reported.
Her autopsy revealed that she died of a coronary artery dissection due to a previously undiagnosed genetic condition known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, according to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.
The rare disorder affects connective tissue, primarily skin, joints, and blood vessel walls, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Grossman graduated this year from Ohio State University with a degree from the school’s Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability program, according to her obituary.
“Sarah was a fierce but compassionate supporter of environmental issues and social justice,” her family wrote. “Those who knew her will understand what a beautiful soul the world has lost. She lived a short but full life.”
With Post wires
