What are the Medical Examiner's responsibilities during an investigation?

The Medical Examiner's responsibilities during an investigation primarily include managing the body and any evidence associated with it. Their role is critical in determining the cause and manner of death, which often involves performing autopsies, examining bodily fluids and tissues, and collecting physical evidence found on or with the deceased. This function is vital for providing clarity in cases of unexpected or unexplained deaths, and the findings can have significant implications for legal proceedings or public health.

The responsibility to handle the body and evidence is distinct from tasks typically managed by law enforcement or crime scene investigators, such as securing the crime scene or conducting witness interviews. The Medical Examiner's focus is specifically on the medical aspects of the case, using forensic science to ascertain facts that may not be immediately apparent. By properly handling the body and any relevant evidence, the Medical Examiner ensures that accurate information is available for further legal investigations and potential prosecutions.