Kathleen Peterson Death: What Was Kathleen Peterson’s Cause Of Death?

On 9 December 2001, Kathleen Peterson, a North Carolina business woman, was found dead at the base of the staircase in her home by her husband who had called 911.

Her husband, Michael Peterson had explained that he had been away from home only to return to the house to find an unconscious Kathleen lying lifeless.

Michael’s explanation implied she must have tripped after consuming alcohol and Valium.

A report from a forensic expert also showed that the blood-splatter evidence was in tune with an accidental fall down the stairs.

However, the police could not be fooled. Michael was accused of killing Kathleen and was charged with murder.

The prosecution reports showed that Michael’s alleged secret “gay life” had led to a stormy relationship between Kathleen and Michael. And because Kathleen was unhappy with him, she threatened to divorce him.

In October 2003, Michael was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. But in 2017, he was granted a new trial and eventually freed.

The case has now inspired Sky Atlantic’s drama ‘The Staircase’, which brings the Kathleen Peterson story to life, and keeps commanding audience attention.