District of Columbia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner

The District of Columbia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is a government agency responsible for determining the cause and manner of deaths in Washington, D.C. It conducts forensic investigations, including autopsies, toxicology testing, and scene investigations, particularly for sudden, unexplained, or suspicious deaths. The office provides vital information to justice, public health, and families, ensuring accurate death certifications and contributing to safety and legal processes. Its work helps clarify how and why individuals die, supporting closure for families and informing public health initiatives.