The loss of a loved one is always tough, but it may be especially challenging if there is uncertainty over the cause of death. One way for grieving loved ones to gain clarity and closure is to seek an autopsy. In some situations, the county coroner or medical examiner may provide this autopsy, while in other cases, a private autopsy service can be needed.
As you consider pursuing a private autopsy, you may wonder what causes of death this process might determine. Simply put, private autopsies can determine the same range of causes of death that an autopsy by the county medical examiner or hospital coroner can report on.
What Can a Private Autopsy Reveal?
There are a number of potential outcomes from a private autopsy. These include:
Confirmation of Death by Natural Causes
Sometimes, there is nothing suspicious, unusual, or complicated about a person’s passing. An autopsy can confirm when someone dies due to simple old age and natural causes.
Suicide and Overdose
A private autopsy can also reveal whether the person took their own life. Additionally, independent autopsies may reveal whether a person died of a drug overdose, and even clarify whether that overdose was accidental or intentional.
Accidental Deaths
In some cases, private autopsy services can reveal other forms of accidental deaths, including traumatic accidents (such as head injuries) that might have occurred around the home.
Can a Private Autopsy Confirm Homicide?
In rare instances, a private autopsy can reveal that the cause of death was homicide. This is uncommon for one simple reason: The signs of homicide are often obvious enough that a county medical examiner or coroner would legally be required to perform that autopsy instead of a private forensic pathologist.
It is worth noting, however, that Dr. Watkins of Saguaro Forensic Consulting often assists coroners and medical examiners in a locum tenens or other support capacity, giving her the experience to understand the signs of homicide and provide that evidence to the police. So, while it is rare for a private autopsy to reveal evidence of a homicide, it is not impossible.
Find Out More About Private Autopsy Services in Indiana and Illinois
Private autopsies can provide clarity and peace of mind following the unexpected passing of a loved one. Learn more about private autopsy services from Saguaro Forensic Consulting today.
