Autopsy Report
An Autopsy Report may be obtained by the decedent’s next-of-kin (via an in-person request or via a notarized written request), notarized authorization from the next-of-kin, or pursuant to a validly issued subpoena or court order. Autopsy Report requests must include the decedent’s full name and date of death and, should also include the OCME case number if available. Payment must also be submitted, payable to the DC Treasurer, at the time of the request utilizing the following fee schedule:
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Autopsy Reports (family) - $15.00
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Autopsy Reports (private organizations) - $75.00
Please send all written requests and fees to:
401 E Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024
Attn: Custodian of Records
Proof of Death
401 E Street, SW
6th Floor
Washington, DC 20024
Attn: Custodian of Records
Death Certificates
Government of the District of Columbia
Department of Health
825 North Capitol Street, NE, First Floor
Washington, DC 20002
(202) 671-5000
Information Available to the Public
Amendment of DC Code 5-1412 in 2023 permits the release of the following information in response to a request from the public:
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Name of the decedent;
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Race of the decedent;
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Sex of the decedent;
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Age of the decedent;
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Cause of death;
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Manner of death;
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Place of death;
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Case identification number;
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Date of examination; and
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Name of the examiner performing the external examination or autopsy
To request any of the above information about a decedent, please complete the “Ask the Chief Medical Examiner” form. Autopsy reports, death certificates, and information not listed above are not available to the public.
Digitization Project of 2013
The “Digitization Project of 2013” affects Polaroid photos found in OCME case files from 1973-1998. Photos from OCME case files are released pursuant to a subpoena or court order.”
“To learn more about the “Digitization Project of 2013” click here.
Fees
Fee Schedule [PDF]
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