No bath salts found in face eating suspect's body

Toxicology tests show marijuana evidence in Eugene's system

MIAMI – Toxicology results confirm Rudy Eugene, the so-called face eater who attacked a homeless man on the MacArthur Causeway, had only traces of marijuana in his system at the time, and no sign of psychotropic narcotics that would have induced his frenzied behavior.

Local10 has also confirmed Eugene had been diagnosed as schizophrenic in the past, making mental illness a more likely cause of his behavior than drugs.

The laboratory at the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner's Department tested Eugene's remains for alcohol,  prescription drugs and street drugs including cocaine, LSD, amphetamines such as Ecstasy, meth and others, phencyclidine, which isPCP or Angel Dust, heroin, oxycodone, Xanax, synthetic marijuana (Spice), and similar compounds. None was found.

In the absence of information following the attack, reports that Eugene was high on mind-altering drugs were widespread though unconfirmed.

In the report, the medical examiner ruled out the most common drugs found in bath salts. The department has enlisted also outside forensic toxicology reference laboratory, which confirmed the absence of bath salts, synthetic marijuana and LSD.

Eugene had been diagnosed as schizophrenic following a past misdemeanor arrest. Authorities are unclear whether he ever sought treatment.

Eugene's alleged victim, Ronald Poppo, 65, remains in the hospital, healing from the attack.


About the Author:

Glenna Milberg joined Local 10 News in September 1999 to report on South Florida's top stories and community issues. She also serves as co-host on Local 10's public affairs broadcast, "This Week in South Florida."