Initial Investigation

A Medicolegal Death Investigator will come to the scene if the death meets or may possibly meet the definition of “Death Affecting the Public Interest”.

The Medicolegal Death Investigator will conduct an initial investigation that includes taking photographs, interviewing family and witnesses, and obtaining a medical and social history. The Medicolegal Death Investigator will also determine who is the decedent’s legal next of kin.

Based on the information obtained, the Medicolegal Death Investigator will determine whether further forensic examination is warranted. This may include contacting our forensic pathologist to discuss the case.

The Medicolegal Death Investigator will explain the next steps in the process to the next of kin. This could include:

• Further forensic examination
• Release of body to funeral home