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King County Medical Examiner
J. Matthew Lacy, MD, Chief Medical Examiner
The King County Medical Examiner's Office (KCMEO) investigates sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths in King County with the highest level of professionalism, compassion, and efficiency, and provides a resource for improving the health and safety of the community consistent with the general mission of Public Health.
Services for families and friends of the deceased
About the Medical Examiner
Learn more about the role of the medical examiner.
Investigations: Guide for family and friends of the deceased
This guide is intended to provide you information about the investigation process, answer some Frequently Asked Questions, and provide a checklist of your unique responsibilities.
Decedent personal effects
Personal effects collected during a Medical Examiner investigation will be released to the family's designated Funeral Home. Families are to select a funeral home within 3 days to coordinate the release of their loved one and any personal effects.
Records requests
How to order autopsy and investigator reports.
DNA and genetic testing
Requests for specimens for DNA and genetic testing.
Other services and resources
King County Medical Examiner’s Office decedent lists by day
The King County Medical Examiner's Office (KCMEO) releases decedent case information weekday afternoons (excluding holidays) once an investigation is complete.
Reports and data
View our annual reports and data dashboards.
Anthropology services
The King County Medical Examiner's Office employs the State Forensic Anthropologist to aid in analysis and identification of bodies.
Disposition Authorization
Information for funeral homes about how to request disposition authorization.
Fellowship training
Apply for our forensic pathology fellowship training program.
Indigent Remains Program
Learn more about cremation and a proper burial for individuals who are indigent and have died in King County.
Unidentified remains
Help the KCMEO identify cold cases of unidentified remains.