​​​​State Medical Examiner Office

The State Medical Examiner Office is responsible for conducting the medical/legal investigative work related to unanticipated, sudden or violent deaths. This includes determining cause and manner of death and providing consultation to law enforcement and the courts. The State Medical Examiner’s Office conducts autopsies, provides court testimony when necessary, and assists with the review of all child deaths through the Child Fatality Review Team.

A Special Message to Family Members:

The State Medical Examiner Office is required by law to be involved in the investigations described in this website. It is important you realize our agency has made a commitment to you to assist in whatever way we can during the difficult times following the death of your loved one. Our primary mission is to provide you with accurate and timely information about the conditions of death, in order for you to understand what happened.

On behalf of the Alaska Medical Examiner's Office, may we offer our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this time. We hope the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section will answer some of the questions and concerns you may have.