Why is a body brought to the Coroner’s Office?
The remains of the deceased person are brought to the Coroner’s Office because Ohio Law requires that the Coroner investigate deaths of persons dying from criminal violence, by accident, by suicide, suddenly, when unattended by physician for a reasonable period of time, in detention, or in any suspicious or unusual manner. Another reason that a body may be brought to the Coroner’s Office is that the identity of the deceased or next-of-kin is unknown.
If a decedent is brought to the Office of the Coroner from a hospital or medical facility, the following form must accompany the body.
How will the body be released?
Routinely, the Coroner releases the body to a licensed funeral director. The next-of-kin of the deceased person should notify a funeral director who, in turn will arrange transportation for the deceased to the funeral home and obtain the necessary documents for burial or cremation.
When is the body released?
The Pathologist assigned the case signs out the decedent in order for the body to be released to the funeral home. Then, the Investigators release the decedent to the funeral home.
How can a funeral director be selected?
Most often, the next-of-kin discusses the selection of a funeral director with other family members, clergy, or friends. The Office of the Coroner is prohibited from recommending a funeral director. A listing of funeral directors is available in the telephone book as well as other resources.
Can I view the decedent?
There is no need or reason to come to the coroner’s office to view a decedent whom is already identified. When identification is necessary, viewing happens behind glass. The most difficult aspect of this position is dealing with people who identify the decedent because it is emotionally charged.