What does the Coroner do during a death investigation?

The FCCO involvement may be extensive or minimal, depending on the case. During a full death investigation, the FCCO will respond to a death scene, take photos and video, interview witnesses, gather evidence and samples associated with the decedent, record measurements, record body parameters, and transport the body to the morgue. Following the scene investigation, the FCCO will contact next of kin, request medical and other pertinent records, conduct an autopsy, submit toxicology samples, complete the investigation with a comprehensive report, and if requested, discuss this report with the family. In addition, certain cases may dictate radiographs, computer simulations, total scene documentation, and clinical pathology analysis. Forensic specialists, such as anthropologists and odontologists, may be called in as necessary.

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1. When will the Coroner be called?
2. What does the Coroner do during a death investigation?
3. When is an autopsy necessary?
4. How long does a death investigation take?
5. Who is the next of kin (NOK)?
6. At what level of certainty are we responsible for making our determinations of cause and manner of death?
7. How long does the Coroner keep a record of a death investigation, and how can I get a copy of my loved one's report?
8. Who is authorized to view our reports?
9. Where do I get a certified death certificate for a loved one who has died?