Office of Chief Medical Examiner of the City of New York, department within the city government that investigates cases of persons who die within New York City
The Office of Chief Medical Examiner of the City of New York is a government agency in Manhattan that investigates deaths that are unusual or suspicious. The office operates laboratories where scientists conduct DNA analysis, toxicology testing, and serology to determine causes of death and support investigations.
The agency was established in 1918 when New York State passed new legislation replacing the coroner system with a chief medical examiner. This shift modernized how death investigations were conducted in the city.
The office carries the title of chief medical examiner, reflecting its role as an independent medical authority in death investigations. Visitors can see how the city places importance on scientific truth and professional expertise in understanding how deaths occur.
The office functions as an administrative location where families and authorities can obtain information about deaths and access records. The agency provides its website in multiple languages to help diverse communities find the services they need.
The DNA laboratory at this agency is the largest of its kind in the world, processing thousands of cases involving genetic evidence. This makes the facility a leading center for advanced forensic science and identification work.
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