Q: Where is my loved one being taken?

A: Your loved one will be transported to the Bloomington Hospital.  Terre Haute Regional Hospital or the I.U. Medical School Forensic Pathology Department.  These laboratory facilities are where we will perform a medical examination on the deceased.

Q: Why is the Coroner involved in the death of my loved one?

A: The following is a list of deaths the Coroner is required by law to investigate.

1.  Suspected sudden infant death syndrome (crib deaths).
2.  Death occurring within 24 hours of admission at a hospital or health care facility.
3.  Physician unable to state cause of death.
4.  Known or suspected homicide.
5.  Known or suspected suicide.
6.  Death involving any criminal action.
7. Related to or following known or suspected self-induced or criminal abortion.
8.  Following an accident or injury (primary or contributory).  Deaths known or suspected as a result in whole or in part from or related to accident or injury, either old or recent.
9.  Drowning, fire, hanging, gunshot, stabbing, exposure, acute alcoholism, drug addition, strangulation, aspiration or malnutrition.
10.  Accidental poisoning (food, chemical, drug, therapeutic agents).
11.  Occupational diseases or occupational hazards.
12.  Known or suspected contagious disease constituting a public hazard.
13.  All deaths of unidentified persons.
14.  Incarceration.
15.  All deaths of unidentified persons.
16.  Unattended deaths (no physician in attendance or during the continued absence of the attending physician).

Q:  Is an autopsy always performed?

A:  Not always.  If the death is a "Natural Death" and the deceased has a physician who knows the medical cause of death and will furnish the Coroner with an acceptable cause, the Coroner will normally not perform an autopsy. 

Q:  Why are autopsies performed?

A:  There are a number of reasons autopsies are performed.  However, the basic reason is to determine the medical cause of death.  Another primary reason is to gather evidence for presentation in a court of law.

Q:  Is there a charge for these services?

A:  No.

Q:  Can I come see him/her?

A:  Due to legal and health issues, visitation of the loved one is done only at the funeral home after the body is properly prepared.

Q:  What about funeral arrangements?

A:  Contact the funeral director of your choice as soon as possible and advise him/her what has transpired.  Your funeral director will then coordinate further arrangements with the hospital and help you begin the preparations for your loved one's funeral.

Q:  Can I contract the Coroner's office?

A:  Certainly, you may call concerning any questions you may have.  Leave a message if necessary and someone will return your call.