California family files lawsuit over kratom-related death

A California family has filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer and retailer of a kratom product, alleging it was responsible for the unexpected death of 55-year-old Lauren Dominguez. Dominguez was found unresponsive in her Southern California home, and a coroner's report identified the cause of death as acute mitragynine intoxication, with chronic alcohol use cited as a contributing factor.

Attorney Michael Jeandron, representing the family, claims that the product is marketed as a safe, natural herbal supplement, which may mislead consumers. He noted that even small doses of kratom can lead to respiratory depression. While the California Department of Public Health warns that kratom can cause addiction, overdose, and death, and notes the product is illegal to sell in the state, the family alleges the product was still being sold at the Almond Smoke Shop in Menifee.