Two Area Deaths Ruled Accidental

Effingham County Coroner Duane Guffey has released further information on two recent deaths that were under investigation.

Amelia Dawn Shepard, age 11 months, was found unresponsive at a babysitter's residence in rural Altamont. After a 911 call, EMS responded and transported Shepard to HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital where she was pronounced dead at 3:45pm on September 16.

After final reports were received and investigations completed, it was determined that she had passed away due to asphyxiation and the manner of her death was ruled accidental. Shepard's death was investigated by the Southern Illinois Child Death Task Force, consisting of Illinois State Police, Effingham County Sheriff's Department, DCFS and the Effingham Coroner's Office. Also assisting was the Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services.

In the second death investigation, Brianne Martin, age 23, passed away on October 17 at 4:16 p.m. due to injuries suffered in a motor vehicle crash. Martin's death was ruled accidental and was investigated by the Illinois State Police and the Effingham County Coroner's office.