Coroner identifies man killed by alligator
Published 11:17 am Friday, September 24, 2021
- (Metro Creative Services)
St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Charles Preston has positively identified the remains found in an alligator’s stomach as Timothy Satterlee Sr.
Satterlee was attacked by an alligator on Aug. 30 near his home near Slidell while navigating the floodwaters brought on by Hurricane Ida. Two weeks later, authorities captured the gator believed responsible for the attack. Once euthanized, the alligator’s stomach contents revealed human remains.
Using advanced DNA technology, Preston’s staff was able to make an 11-point DNA match with Satterlee’s children.
“For legal purposes, a 16-point match is the general standard,” Preston said. “In this case, given the circumstances, I am satisfied that an 11-point match confirms these are Mr. Satterlee’s remains.”
Nonetheless, Preston is continuing the scientific effort to positively identify the remains.
“We have catalogued hair and other samples from Mr. Satterlee’s home and will attempt to make a full and complete DNA match,” Preston said. “We offer our sympathies to Mr. Satterlee’s family as they continue to deal with this tragic loss.”
