Cause of death released in castration case

MERCER -- The Harrisville man authorities said was castrated earlier this year died of asphyxiation due to aspiration of gastric contents, according to a ruling by the Mercer County coroner.
J. Bradley McGonigle III said the castration, combined with drug use, also contributed to 40-year-old James John Felbaum's death.
Officials said the manner of Felbaum's death is still under investigation. They said they planned to release additional information today.
Felbaum was pronounced dead Feb. 25 at United Community Hospital in Grove City. Pennsylvania State Police in Butler have said they believe his wife, Tammy, 42, is a taxidermist.
Last week authorities removed formaldehyde and other chemicals used in taxidermy from Felbaum's mobile home, which is about five miles east of Grove City. Police said medical equipment, two dogs, three birds and seven Siamese cats were also removed.
Initially authorities had said they suspected Felbaum had died of an overdose. The castration, which authorities called a very crude operation, was not revealed until last week after an autopsy was performed.