Byrne autopsy results released

“Probable hypothermia due to prolonged environmental exposure” is the official cause of death for Alyssa Byrne.

The 19-year-old Petaluma woman died New Year’s weekend in South Lake Tahoe after having attended the SnowGlobe Music Festival near Lake Tahoe Community College.

South Tahoe residents gathered Jan. 17 at Lakeview Commons to remember Alyssa Byrne. Photo/LTN file

The autopsy results were released Feb. 18 by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Department.

Methamphetamines and other drugs were found in her system, according to the toxicology report.

“We had learned from associates and friends she was using drugs. It’s sad, but we think it did contribute to her death,” sheriff’s Lt. Pete Van Arnum told Lake Tahoe News. “The hypothermia is probably what killed her first.”

Byrne’s body was found on the east side of Pioneer trail near Al Tahoe Boulevard after she had gone missing for three days. She had discarded her jacket nearby. This is a classic sign of someone with hypothermia; shedding clothing despite freezing temperatures.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report