When working on a death scene, keep track of how and when the coroner and any associated investigators and agencies are notified of the death. Record date and time each was called and by whom, as well as when they arrived. Before the coroner is allowed into the scene, make sure all evidence that can be contaminated by his presence is collected. This includes blood spatter, foot prints, tire tracks, and shell casings. Especially if there has been a significant lapse of time between when the scene was first secured and when the coroner arrived, make sure you share with him any pertinent information that may affect his investigation, such as the weather and temperature when you first arrived. Stand by the coroner and record any remarks relevant to the case. This may include cause of death by bullet wound, knife wound, ligature marks, or beating.

When the body is ready to be moved, continue to jot in your checklist, everything that happens. Record the name of the company notified to remove the body from the scene. Who called them and when? Who authorized the body to be removed from the scene? Who actually picked up the body? When did they arrive and depart? Answers to these questions begin the documentation of the chain of custody of the body.

Continue to record that chain of custody as you note whether or not the body bag was sealed and if so, how (tape, locking tag, or some other method). Catalog the body bag seal or tag number. Record where the body will be transported (funeral home, medical examiner’s, etc.) and who made the decision. Was the body escorted? Note that by escorting the body, you will ensure the chain of custody for the body and any evidence recovered from the body.