Originally Posted by
Williamsmith
I understand the pressure to bend to the family wishes of such a politically powerful family. Certainly, overruling their insistence for closure would not be popular or the easiest route but it is the right one. It is not even feasible to visibly examine a body thoroughly at the scene let alone be assured that no pertinent evidence exists within the body that would change your opinion of cause and manner of death.
I had a female hanging victim that I allowed to be taken to the funeral home without an autopsy. I was called to the funeral home because there was reverse writing on her body that was not documented. An embarrassment but a learning experience. An autopsy confirmed suicide but the damage to my pride had already been done.
What would that dignity cost if it were at the price of a misplaced confidence in natural death without a sound basis? I never slept well at night without answers to questions that need to be provided. We have the ability to put to rest any suspicious thoughts and we should do it. The family can be explained these things with compassion and professionalism.