Human remains presented as evidence

VIRGINIA, Minn. (AP) -- Prosecutors presented as evidence at Donald Blom's murder trial two small boxes that they say contain the burned remains of Katie Poirier.

Investigators and forensic scientists testified Monday about gathering the contents of the boxes -- fragments of bones and teeth -- in a fire pit on Blom's vacation property 12 miles from the Moose Lake convenience store where she was abducted in May 1999.

The Poirier family and friends, some crying quietly, watched intently as the remains were entered into evidence.

Blom, 51, of Richfield, is accused of kidnapping Poirier, 19, of Barnum, from DJ's Expressway last year, killing her and burning her body at his nearby vacation property. He initially confessed to the crime, but later recanted.

Evidence sifted from the ashes of the fire pit included a rivet from County Seat-brand jeans, testified David Petersen, assistant director of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension's crime lab. The brand is one Poirier wore, according to earlier testimony.

The prosecution has told the jury they will hear experts testify that the remains are those of a young woman, and that a molar is consistent with Poirier's dental records.

James Dougherty, a forensic scientist at the BCA, testified he collected fingerprints, hairs, fibers and other items from the store and Blom's nearby property.

Blom's lead defense attorney, Rodney Brodin, pointed out that none of his client's fingerprints were found in the store, and none of the victim's prints were discovered on the defendant's property or in his truck.

Dougherty told Brodin that about 30 fingerprints were lifted from doors and other surfaces. Not all of the fingerprints could be accounted for, Dougherty said.