What is the role of the Medical Examiner in cases of unattended deaths in Missouri?

The role of the Medical Examiner in cases of unattended deaths in Missouri is primarily to investigate and determine the cause of death. Unattended deaths, which occur without medical supervision or in circumstances that are not immediately clear to authorities, prompt an investigation to ascertain the circumstances and cause behind the death.

The Medical Examiner is tasked with conducting autopsies, examining evidence, and obtaining medical history as necessary to reach a conclusion about how the death occurred. This function is critical not only for understanding the specific incident but also for addressing any broader public health concerns or legal issues that may arise from the death.

Determining the cause of death is essential for full legal compliance and ensures that appropriate measures can be taken, such as notifying law enforcement if foul play is suspected. It also informs the necessary parties, including health departments and possibly the family, regarding the nature of the death.

Other options, such as performing funeral services, notifying family members, or arranging for cremation, fall outside the purview of the Medical Examiner's duties. While family notification is an important part of the process, it is typically the responsibility of law enforcement or the funeral home, not the Medical Examiner.