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Medical Examiner's Office

Investigating sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths in Philadelphia with professionalism, compassion, and efficiency.

Medical Examiner’s Office

What we do

The Medical Examiner’s Office (MEO) determines the cause and manner of death for sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths in Philadelphia. Our doctors, scientists, and technicians work with the Philadelphia Police Department to investigate these deaths.

We also provide services to support the families and loved ones of the deceased.

Our hours

For the general public

Our lobby is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can request records, deliver forms, or pick up belongings of the deceased during this time.

For funeral directors

Pick-up hours are from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Call (215) 685-7484 or use the intercom when you arrive. You'll need a release from the family for pickup.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Non-Burial Disposition Regulation Delayed

Connect

Address
400 N. Broad St.
(enter on Callowhill St.)
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Email MedicalExaminer@phila.gov
Phone: (215) 685-7458 for general inquiries
(215) 685-7445 to report a death, search for a missing person, or ask a time-sensitive question

Our units

Investigation units

Seven units contribute specific information to individual cases.

  • Forensic Anthropology helps identify the deceased.
  • Forensic Investigation determines if a death comes under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner and investigates the circumstances surrounding the death.
  • Forensic Odontology evaluates bite marks and uses dental records to identify the deceased.
  • Forensic Technician coordinates the intake, release, and transportation of the deceased.
  • Histology prepares tissue slides for microscopic analysis.
  • Pathology determines both the cause and manner of death in every case that the Medical Examiner handles.
  • Toxicology Laboratory analyzes postmortem specimens for drug abuse, prescription drugs, and poisons.

Support and review units

  • Bereavement Support provides crisis intervention and support services to families who have lost a loved one.
  • Fatality Review Program reviews the deaths of selected vulnerable populations to better understand the factors that contributed to the deaths.

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