Drug overdose killed woman found dead near creek

NEW CASTLE, Pa. — A woman who was found dead near a shallow creek in Shenango Township died of combined drug intoxication, said the Lawrence County coroner.

Russell Noga announced the cause of death Friday after reviewing toxicology reports on Kristiana Wilkins, 40.

Her body was found about 5 p.m. Dec. 24 by a Shenango Township police officer when he stopped to help the driver of a disabled tractor trailer on County Line Road. She had been there at least 24 hours.

The investigation was turned over to the state police.

Noga said Friday that police are still investigating the manner of Wilkins’ death.

There were no obvious signs of trauma on her body.