The Office of the Medical Examiner investigates and determines cause and manner of death occuring in Westchester "due to unlawful act, criminal neglect, violence, casualties, or by sudden or unexplained circumstances."

Notification of such deaths is usually made to the office by a police officer, physician or funeral director at the scene of death. Staff from the ME's office are available around the clock. Thus, notification should be made as soon as possible so a decision as to whether or not the case falls under the Medical Examiner's jurisdiction can be made quickly.

How extensive the investigation will be, depends on the circumstances of the death. Read the Guide to reporting deaths to the medical examiner for more information.