Medical Examiner

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office plays a vital role in ensuring public health, safety, and justice in the state of Texas. Serving the counties of Tarrant, Denton, Johnson, and Parker, the office provides thorough forensic death investigations, autopsies, and other essential services related to the determination of cause and manner of death. This article offers an in-depth look at the services provided by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner, detailing its responsibilities, procedures, divisions, and contact information for those seeking assistance.

Mission and Purpose of the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office is dedicated to conducting medicolegal investigations of deaths within its jurisdiction. Its mission is to protect public health and safety through high-quality forensic death investigations and impartial participation in the criminal justice system. The office works tirelessly to ensure the timely, accurate, and legally sound determination of cause and manner of death. Moreover, the Medical Examiner's Office also educates the public on preventable deaths and assists in mass casualty planning.

Key Responsibilities of the Medical Examiner

Investigation of Unexplained Deaths: The primary role of the Medical Examiner's Office is to investigate deaths that are unexplained or occur under suspicious circumstances, such as violent or unattended deaths.

Determination of Cause and Manner of Death: Through autopsies and forensic analysis, the Medical Examiner determines the cause and manner of death, which are crucial in criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and public health matters.

Collaboration with Other Agencies: The office frequently collaborates with law enforcement, emergency services, and public health authorities in the investigation of deaths, particularly in cases involving mass casualties or natural disasters.

The Role of the Medical Examiner’s Office in Forensic Investigations

Forensic Death Investigations

The Medical Examiner’s office operates an around-the-clock investigative division, staffed by trained forensic death investigators who attend death scenes across the counties served. These investigators work to gather vital information regarding the decedent’s identity and the circumstances surrounding the death. By coordinating with law enforcement, hospitals, and families, investigators compile a comprehensive report that aids in determining the cause and manner of death.

The division’s responsibilities include:

Attending scenes of death, whether at homes, hospitals, or accident sites.
Coordinating with local law enforcement and medical personnel.
Conducting interviews with witnesses and next of kin to gather contextual information.

Forensic Pathology

Forensic pathologists, who are specialized physicians trained in pathology and forensic science, play a critical role in determining the cause and manner of death. These medical professionals examine bodies, analyze toxicological samples, and utilize various forensic tools such as radiology and DNA technology. They provide detailed insights into whether a death was caused by injury, disease, poisoning, or natural circumstances.

The forensic pathologists also work with investigators to ensure that all collected evidence is properly analyzed, leading to accurate and legally sound conclusions regarding death.

Services and Divisions of the Medical Examiner's Office

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office is divided into several key departments that work together to conduct thorough investigations and support families during difficult times. These departments include:

Morgue Services and Forensic Photography

The morgue services division handles the body and remains of decedents, ensuring proper documentation, examination, and storage. Forensic photographers take essential images during autopsies and investigations. The morgue also ensures privacy during the transfer of bodies and is equipped with advanced facilities to handle both normal and hazardous cases.

Human Identification and Anthropology

Unidentified bodies are handled by the Human Identification department, which uses a variety of scientific methods to establish the decedent’s identity. This includes fingerprint analysis, DNA comparison, dental record matching, and anthropological methods to determine biological profiles. These techniques are critical in cases where the remains are decomposed or in advanced stages of decomposition.

Forensic Histology

Histology involves the microscopic examination of tissue and cells to determine the cause of death. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner employs certified histologists who analyze tissue samples collected during autopsies. The results of these analyses help pathologists in their determination of death cause, particularly in cases where disease or trauma is involved.

Legal and Statutory Authority

Texas Code of Criminal Procedure

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office operates under the jurisdiction of Texas law, specifically Section 49.25 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which mandates investigations of deaths under certain circumstances. These include:

Unexplained deaths
Homicides
Suicides
Accidental deaths

The office is governed by state law, ensuring that investigations are conducted impartially and in compliance with legal standards.

Fees for Services

While the Medical Examiner’s Office itself does not charge families for investigative services or autopsies, some associated services may incur fees. These include:

Fees for laboratory testing
Charges for official records and reports
Fees for the release of photographs or other documents

Families should be aware that funeral homes may charge for transportation after the examination is complete.

Reporting and Obtaining Death Records

Reporting a Death

To report a death, individuals or family members must contact the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office. The office will assess whether the death falls under its jurisdiction. If the death is determined to be reportable, an investigation will be initiated.

For further details, visit the report a death page.

Obtaining Autopsy Reports and Examination Records

After the examination, families or authorized representatives may request copies of the autopsy report, including photographs, toxicology reports, and other relevant records. Requests for records must be submitted in writing and include necessary documentation, such as a notarized letter of request and payment for services.

More details on how to request these reports can be found on the Tarrant County Medical Examiner Records page.

Locations and Contact Information

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office serves a large region, including Tarrant, Denton, Johnson, and Parker Counties. Below are the relevant contact details for the office and its satellite locations:

Tarrant County Medical Examiner

200 Feliks Gwozdz Place
Fort Worth, TX 76104-4919
Phone: 817-920-5700
Fax: 817-920-5713
Email: MEInvestigations@tarrantcountytx.gov

Denton County Medical Examiner

535 South Loop 288, Suite 1132
Denton, TX 76205-4502
Phone: 940-349-2870
Fax: 940-349-2871
Email: medicalexaminer@dentoncounty.gov

Johnson County Medical Examiner

103 South Walnut Street
Cleburne, TX 76033
Phone: 817-558-2245
Fax: 817-558-7212
Website: Johnson County Medical Examiner

Parker County Medical Examiner

215 Trinity Street
Weatherford, TX 76086
Phone: 682-229-2120
Fax: 817-818-1727
Website: Parker County Medical Examiner

These offices work together to serve the four counties in the region, ensuring that all deaths are investigated appropriately and that families receive the necessary support and answers during difficult times.

By maintaining high standards of forensic investigation, the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office plays an essential role in upholding public health, safety, and justice within the community.

Tarrant County Medical Examiner FAQs

What is required for a cremation under the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's jurisdiction?

Under Texas Health and Human Code, cremation may not occur within 48 hours of death unless waived by the Tarrant County Medical Examiner. A cremation permit is required, and if the death was not under the Medical Examiner's jurisdiction, a signed death certificate from a physician is needed.

Can I view the body of my loved one at the Medical Examiner's Office?

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner does not facilitate body viewings. Viewing must be arranged with the funeral home or crematory handling the remains. If identification is needed, the Medical Examiner will assist in the process and may contact the family.

How long does it take to complete an autopsy?

A typical autopsy at the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office takes up to three hours. For more complex cases, especially those involving traumatic injuries, the process may take longer to ensure thorough documentation.

Can I obtain copies of the autopsy photos?

Yes, copies of autopsy photos can be released to the legal next-of-kin upon submission of a notarized letter and pre-payment. The request must include the decedent’s name, the specific photos requested, and identification from the requester.

How do I request a death investigation report?

To request a death investigation report from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office, complete the Autopsy/Exam Report Request Form and mail it along with payment. All requests are subject to applicable fees, and the process can take several weeks depending on the complexity of the case.

For further details, visit the Tarrant County Medical Examiner Records page.