A North Carolina court has decided that prosecutors will not seek the death penalty against a woman accused of poisoning family members during a Thanksgiving gathering. The case has shocked the local community, especially because two people died — including the woman’s own daughter.
The trial will now move forward as a noncapital case, meaning the death penalty will not be considered if she is convicted.
Below is a clear summary of the case and recent court developments.
Prosecutors Drop Death Penalty in Henderson County Case
During a court hearing in Henderson County on February 26, Assistant District Attorney John Douglas Mundy confirmed that the case against Gudrun Linda Casper-Leinenkugel would proceed as noncapital.
According to reports from the Asheville Citizen Times and WLOS, the announcement came during a Rule 24 hearing. This type of hearing is required in cases where the death penalty could apply.
Even though the charges are serious, prosecutors have decided not to pursue capital punishment.
Charges Against Gudrun Linda Casper-Leinenkugel
Gudrun Linda Casper-Leinenkugel is facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Two counts of first-degree murder
- Two counts of attempted first-degree murder
- Three counts related to distributing a contaminated food or beverage
She is accused in the death of her 32-year-old daughter, Leela Jean Livis, and in the attempted poisoning of her other daughter and that daughter’s boyfriend.
Her defence attorney, Paul Bidwell, has stated that she strongly denies all allegations and plans to defend herself in court.
What Allegedly Happened on Thanksgiving 2025
Court documents state that the alleged poisonings took place on November 30, 2025, during a Thanksgiving gathering.
Three attendees — Livis, Richard Pegg and Mia Lacey — reportedly drank from the same wine bottle and later became seriously ill. Investigators allege that the wine was mixed with acetonitrile, a chemical used in manufacturing.
Authorities say acetonitrile can turn into cyanide inside the body, causing delayed but deadly poisoning.
North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed earlier that Livis died on December 1, 2025.
Possible Link to a 2007 Death
The case has also reopened questions about a 2007 death in Henderson County. Investigators say they found evidence possibly linking Casper-Leinenkugel to the death of Michael Schmidt.
According to reporting by the Asheville Citizen Times, Schmidt’s death certificate listed the cause as acute acetonitrile toxicity, possibly from inhaling the chemical.
Authorities are still reviewing that earlier case.
Background of the Accused
Casper-Leinenkugel was known locally as a business owner in Asheville. Reports say she previously operated or helped manage businesses including:
- Bean Werks Coffee and Tea
- Patton Public House (also known as Bryish Haus and Pub)
These details have added to the public interest in the case.
Emotional Courtroom Reactions
During the recent hearing, several family members were present in the courtroom. Among them was Mia Lacey, one of the alleged victims.
Speaking to WLOS, Livis’ father, Travis Peterson, described the pain of losing his daughter.
“My firstborn kid,” he said. “When I first found out that Leela had died, it was a gut punch.”
The emotional impact of the case continues to be felt by those close to the family.
What Happens Next?
The trial will continue without the possibility of the death penalty. If convicted of first-degree murder, Casper-Leinenkugel could still face life imprisonment.
Her next court hearing is scheduled for April 30. Prosecutors and defence lawyers are expected to continue presenting evidence and arguments as the case moves forward.
