Dr. Michael Baden, a renowned forensic pathologist, examined the case of Oklahoma teen Noah Presgrove, who was found dead on Labor Day in 2023 along a rural stretch of US-81. Baden explained that Presgrove suffered from internal bleeding, possibly from an ATV accident, and collapsed on a highway where a truck hit him, causing fatal injuries. Presgrove was last seen alive at a party but there is still uncertainty surrounding the events leading up to his death. Despite ongoing investigations, no new information has emerged and Presgrove’s family remains in the dark about what happened that night.
According to the medical examiner’s report, Presgrove was involved in an ATV rollover incident at a party, leading to an argument with his girlfriend. The level of alcohol in Presgrove’s system may have prevented him from recognizing the extent of his injuries. His friend’s mother, Kristen Smith, believes that alcohol and a drunken dispute may have contributed to Presgrove’s death. Baden mentioned that due to the alcohol consumption at the party, others may not have realized the seriousness of Presgrove’s injuries, assuming his condition was a result of intoxication rather than a dangerous internal injury.
Authorities have classified Presgrove’s death as “undetermined,” with Baden suggesting that the circumstances are consistent with a hit-and-run. He theorizes that if someone struck Presgrove and then fled the scene without rendering aid, it could be considered a homicide. While Baden’s examination hinted at a link between an auto incident and Presgrove’s death, there are still unanswered questions about how the teenager ended up along the highway. Presgrove, who had plans to enlist in the military, had graduated from high school early and was looking forward to serving alongside his cousin.
Baden emphasized that Presgrove’s level of intoxication could have masked the severity of his injuries, leading others to overlook his condition at the party. The high-profile forensic expert drew parallels between Presgrove’s case and hit-and-run scenarios. He suggested that if someone had struck Presgrove and failed to stop or help, it could be viewed as a potential homicide. While no new information has surfaced about the events preceding Presgrove’s death, his family continues to wait for answers, hoping for closure in the tragic loss of their loved one.
As the investigation into Presgrove’s death remains ongoing, Baden’s insights shed light on the possible circumstances surrounding the teenager’s tragic passing. The nature of Presgrove’s injuries, his involvement in an ATV accident, and the subsequent events leading up to his death raise questions that still lack definitive answers. Despite the mysterious circumstances surrounding his demise, Presgrove’s family continues to grapple with the loss of their son and the lingering uncertainties about the night that changed their lives forever.
