Who is Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel?

Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel is a 52-year-old North Carolina woman arrested and charged with murder and attempted murder for allegedly poisoning drinks.

What chemical was allegedly used in the poisonings?

Authorities allege that Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel used acetonitrile, a chemical that can convert to cyanide and cause delayed toxicity.

When did the alleged poisoning crimes occur?

The alleged crimes range from 2007 with the death of Michael Schmidt, to December 2025 with the death of Leela Livis, and also include attempted murders of other individuals.

Home / Crime and Justice / NC Woman Accused of Poisoning Drinks, Killing Two

NC Woman Accused of Poisoning Drinks, Killing Two

20 Jan

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Summary

Woman faces murder charges for poisoning drinks, killing two victims.
Suspected poisoner used acetonitrile, a chemical that converts to cyanide.
The alleged crimes span from 2007 to a recent death in December 2025.

NC Woman Accused of Poisoning Drinks, Killing Two

Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel, 52, was arrested on January 16, 2026, and charged with murder in connection with Leela Livis's death on December 1, 2025. She also faces attempted murder charges for Richard Pegg and Mia Lacey.

Evidence allegedly links Casper-Leinenkugel to the 2007 death of Michael Schmidt in Henderson County. Detectives found she distributed a beverage containing the poisonous chemical acetonitrile, which can cause death or serious injury.

Acetonitrile is a solvent that is slowly converted to cyanide in the body, leading to delayed toxicity. The arrest warrants claim Casper-Leinenkugel knowingly placed this chemical into her victims' beverages, allegedly with malice aforethought.

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