A former restaurant owner from North Carolina is under scrutiny for allegedly poisoning drinks as part of a fatal scheme in 2025, following suspicions she may have been involved in a similar incident nearly 20 years earlier.

Gudrun Casper-Leinenkugel is facing serious charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder, related to events that unfolded decades apart. This information comes from a statement issued by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

In addition, Casper-Leinenkugel is charged with three counts concerning the illegal distribution of food or beverages.

The 52-year-old allegedly used the toxic chemical acetonitrile—a colorless liquid with a sweet flavor—to contaminate drinks. These beverages were then made accessible for human consumption, as detailed in an arrest warrant reported by People. Authorities warn that this chemical can result in death or cause severe physical harm.

The investigation began after the body of 32-year-old Leela Livis was discovered on December 1. According to a report shared with Oxygen, law enforcement has also connected Casper-Leinenkugel to the attempted murders of Richard Pegg and Mia Lacey.

The investigation also led them to another suspected victim from 2007.

“During the course of the investigation,” authorities noted, “Detectives located evidence linking Casper-Leinenkugel to the murder of Michael Schmidt that occurred in Henderson County in 2007.”

Although its unclear whether Schmidt died in the same manner, investigators alleged that Casper-Leinenkugel killed both Livis and Schmidt with “malice aforethought,” according to the warrant. 

Schmidt was discovered Oct. 29, 2007, according to an incident report provided to Oxygen. 

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office public information officer Stephanie Barbosa declined to provide any additional information on the case to Oxygen, citing the ongoing investigation. 

“To preserve the integrity of this investigation, no further information will be released at this time,” the sheriff’s office said. “There is no current or ongoing threat to the public.”

Casper-Leinenkugel once operated a restaurant in Asheville, WKRC reported.

She’s currently being held at the Henderson County Detention Facility. It’s unclear whether she has retained an attorney.

Anyone with information on the case is urged to call the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crime Unit at 828-694-2938.