David J. Moylan, M.D., Coroner | Joseph Weber, M.D., Chief Deputy | Eric M. Mika, Esq., CELA, Solicitor
Tel: 570-277-0200
Fax: 570-277-0211
Email: sccoroner@co.schuylkill.pa.us
Fax: 570-277-0211
Email: sccoroner@co.schuylkill.pa.us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
On behalf of the Schuylkill County Coroner’s Office, we extend our deepest sympathy to you at this time.
To assist you during this difficult time, we have prepared some answers to commonly asked questions.
Please feel free to contact us if we may be of further service to you.
To assist you during this difficult time, we have prepared some answers to commonly asked questions.
Please feel free to contact us if we may be of further service to you.
1. What happens when a death is reported to the Coroner?
Natural deaths may be certified by the decedent's family physician when the likely cause of death is known based
upon the medical history. When the family physician cannot reach a decision regarding the cause of death within
a reasonable degree of medical certainty and therefore cannot certify the death, the Coroner's Office assumes
jurisdiction and begins further investigation.
upon the medical history. When the family physician cannot reach a decision regarding the cause of death within
a reasonable degree of medical certainty and therefore cannot certify the death, the Coroner's Office assumes
jurisdiction and begins further investigation.
2. How do I report a death?
When a person dies suddenly or unexpectedly, your first duty is to Call 9-1-1 for medical assistance & guidance.
3. What constitutes a coroners case?
Below is a list of deaths that would be considered coroners cases
1. Overt criminal violence or suggestion of violence in any form;
2. Homicides, by any means;
3. Accidents by any means;
4. Suicides by any means;
5. Sudden deaths of apparently healthy persons who are not under the care of a PA licensed physician;
6. Unidentified or unidentifiable persons or when the next of kin is unknown or may not be available;
7. Death in a public facility, i.e. correctional or psychiatric facility; or
8. Any suspicious, unusual or questionable death.
1. Overt criminal violence or suggestion of violence in any form;
2. Homicides, by any means;
3. Accidents by any means;
4. Suicides by any means;
5. Sudden deaths of apparently healthy persons who are not under the care of a PA licensed physician;
6. Unidentified or unidentifiable persons or when the next of kin is unknown or may not be available;
7. Death in a public facility, i.e. correctional or psychiatric facility; or
8. Any suspicious, unusual or questionable death.
4. What Does The Coroner's Office Do?
It is the Role of the Coroner's Office to:
1. Investigate the facts & circumstances concerning deaths that appear to have happened within the county
2. Determine identity of the deceased
3. Notify next-of-kin
4. Determine cause and manner of death
5. Determine whether or not an autopsy or an inquest should be conducted
1. Investigate the facts & circumstances concerning deaths that appear to have happened within the county
2. Determine identity of the deceased
3. Notify next-of-kin
4. Determine cause and manner of death
5. Determine whether or not an autopsy or an inquest should be conducted
5. How do I receive a copy of the Death Certificate?
The investigating Coroner or Deputy Coroner will certify the decedent's Death Certificate. Certified
Death Certificates are then mailed to the Funeral Home of choice. You will receive a copy of the completed
Death Certificate from the Funeral Home. The Coroner's Office does not provide copies of Death Certificates
to Next-of-Kin. Questions regarding Death Certificates can be directed to the Office Manager at 570-277-0200.
Death Certificates are then mailed to the Funeral Home of choice. You will receive a copy of the completed
Death Certificate from the Funeral Home. The Coroner's Office does not provide copies of Death Certificates
to Next-of-Kin. Questions regarding Death Certificates can be directed to the Office Manager at 570-277-0200.
6. What is a "Pending" Cause / Manner of Death?
A Death Certificate that is certified as "Pending" for either the Cause of Death or Manner of Death means
that the investigation into the Cause or Manner of Death is still an on-going investigation. A "Pending"
certificate is necessary for purposes of disposition, including burial or cremation. The length of time of
an investigation varies on a case-by-case basis.
that the investigation into the Cause or Manner of Death is still an on-going investigation. A "Pending"
certificate is necessary for purposes of disposition, including burial or cremation. The length of time of
an investigation varies on a case-by-case basis.
7. Can I meet with the Coroner?
Yes. The Coroner and Investigating Deputy Coroner will gladly meet with any Next-of-Kin regarding a Coroner's
Case. Meetings are typically at the Coroner's Office in the Conference room. During this time and at the family's
request, virtual autopsy, autopsy, toxicology, and case reports can be reviewed and an explanation as to Cause and
Manner of Death can be elaborated upon if needed. Please contact the Coroner's Office to schedule an appointment.
Case. Meetings are typically at the Coroner's Office in the Conference room. During this time and at the family's
request, virtual autopsy, autopsy, toxicology, and case reports can be reviewed and an explanation as to Cause and
Manner of Death can be elaborated upon if needed. Please contact the Coroner's Office to schedule an appointment.
