Preserving Custody and Ensuring Proper Body Disposition
Maintaining custody of the body is essential for preserving the chain of custody from the death scene to the receiving facility. The medicolegal death investigator (MDI) is responsible for coordinating and documenting secure transportation for further examination, specimen collection, or storage. Accurate documentation confirms that jurisdiction has been upheld and that the integrity of evidence is protected throughout the transfer process.
Conducting Final Exit Procedures and Scene Verification
Before leaving the scene, the investigator must verify that all evidence has been collected and that the environment has been fully processed. A systematic walkthrough ensures that investigative tools, evidence, or equipment have not been inadvertently left behind and that any hazardous materials or dangerous conditions have been identified, documented, and reported to the appropriate authorities. These exit procedures safeguard investigative accuracy and support safe re-entry for cleanup professionals or authorized parties.
Supporting Families and Authorized Individuals
Throughout the transition period, the MDI plays a crucial role in providing guidance to families or authorized representatives. This includes offering an estimated timeline and directing them to professional and community resources that may support them during the post-incident process. Clear and compassionate communication helps families plan for final disposition and understand next steps in the death investigation process.
Transferring Jurisdiction and Releasing Custody
Before releasing custody of the body to an authorized funeral home or receiving agent, the investigator must confirm the designated certifying physician and collect the required information for the death certificate. This documentation includes demographic details, geographical location, time, and date of death. Once the certifying authority is confirmed and all records are completed, the body is formally transferred to the authorized agent, and jurisdiction is officially relinquished.
Professional Biohazard Cleanup Following Scene Release
After law enforcement and investigative teams complete their work, professional biohazard cleanup specialists may be required to restore the affected area safely and respectfully. Trauma scenes often contain bloodborne pathogens and hazardous biological materials that demand specialized equipment, training, and compliance with OSHA and state regulations. For families, property managers, or communities facing this responsibility, licensed biohazard remediation companies provide essential support by returning the environment to a safe and sanitary condition.
Death Investigations Series
If you liked the death investigations series, you can click the links below for the two prior posts.
1. Death Investigations: Understanding the Process Before Biohazard Cleanup
2. Death Investigations: Arriving at the Death Scene
3. Death Investigations: The Role of Death Scene Documentation
4. Death Investigations: Documenting and Evaluating the Body
5. Death Investigations: Recording Decedent Profile Information
6. Death Investigations: Final Steps in the Medicolegal Death Scene Investigation
