Theoretical question on a point of murder fiction plot.

Details: In the plot, the man dies through diabetic acidosis and is dumped in a river, in a relatively hot climate (central/south European summer).Interested to know whether the features and ethnicity would still be apparent, whether the cause of death could still be determined through necropsy, degree of bloating, etc. Many thanks.

In warm water it is most likely that the body would be badly decomposed and unidentifiable even as to gender.

It would not be possible to determine cause of death.

Here is a link to University of Dundee, look under "effects of immersion." This was prepared by Derrick Pounder, one of the leading forensic pathologists in the world.

If after reviewing the times for immersion, surfacing and putrefaction you have further questions, just ask.

Much obliged for your answer, Dr Bill. Most helpful.