Who we are
The Clatsop County Sheriff's Office is happy to introduce our newest division! The Medical Examiner Division manages all aspects of the Clatsop County death investigation system in conjunction with national and state guidelines. We certify the cause and manner of deaths requiring investigation by state law (Oregon Revised Statutes, Chapter 146).
These investigations include sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths within the county. This may include postmortem examinations and toxicology analyses for drugs and alcohol. We work closely with the families of the deceased and other members of the community to provide timely, accurate, and empathetic investigations. Our division also maintains county records and provides lectures and trainings on death investigations to local law enforcement agencies, schools, attorneys, physicians, and others associated with death investigations.
Clatsop County Sheriff's Office Medical Examiner Division consists of one full time Medicolegal Death Investigator and one part time Medicolegal Death Investigator.
What we do
We are required to investigate the following deaths, including but not limited to:
- Suspicious or unknown circumstances
- Homicide or suicide
- Accidents or injuries
- Unlawful use of controlled substances, or the use of a chemical or toxic substance
- Persons who die unexpectedly in good health, while not under the care of a physician immediately before death (such as at home)
- Those that happen while incarcerated in jail or prison, or in police custody
- Contagious diseases that may pose a public health threat
- On-the-job activities
During an investigation, a deputy medical examiner may respond to the scene, interview witnesses, take photographs, obtain evidence and property and assist with notifying next of kin.
Death Certificates
After a cause of death has been determined, a death certificate is registered with state vital records. Certified copies may be ordered through the funeral service or click here for Clatsop County Vital Records.
Note: It may take 8-10 weeks or longer to get a death certificate if the exact cause and manner of death cannot be immediately determined. Special laboratory tests or further investigation may be necessary.
Cost
There is no fee for the investigation. Occasionally transportation is needed to get the body to the Medical Examiner's Office. This cost is passed on to the designated funeral home/cremation service.