Medical Examiner

Medical Examiner's Function

Oregon State Law mandates that, in each county, there shall be a medical examiner for the purpose of investigating and certifying the cause and manner of deaths requiring investigation. The District Attorney shares in these duties and responsibilities.

The outcome of any death investigation may ultimately impact personal liberty and well-being, public health and safety, research capabilities, and governmental approaches to legislation and programs.

How the System Works

Benton County deaths are investigated by a death investigator with an extensive medical background. The Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office provides autopsy and toxicology services and signs all associated death certificates for Benton County.

Mission

The primary mission of the Benton County Medical Examiner's office is to gather information necessary to accurately certify manner and cause of death.

Manner of Death Cause of Death

Based on cause and circumstance:

    •  Natural
    •  Accidental
    •  Suicide
    •  Homicide
    •  Undetermined

Based on mechanism;
the specific disease
or injury which led to death

Additional duties of the Medical Examiner include:

  • Assistance with accurate identification of deceased
  • Assistance with location and notification of next of kin
  • Documentation and preservation of evidence related to death
  • Provide training medical and criminal justice professionals

 

Contact Us

Benton County Medical Examiner
120 NW 4th Street
Corvallis, OR 97330