We know that this is likely a difficult time for you and your family. We hope that this FAQ resource will provide you with helpful information, and we encourage you to contact us at 208-533-6904 for additional information or assistance.
The Coroner’s Office is required by Idaho law (19-4301) to investigate any deaths that fall under our jurisdiction. This includes unattended, suspicious, violent, or unexplained deaths as well as those that may pose a safety risk to the public.
The legal next-of-kin is determined by Idaho law. Investigators will work with family to identify who this will be in your case. Next-of-kin will be the primary point of contact for our office and will handle decisions relating to final disposition.
Death investigations and death certificates can take weeks or months to finalize. However, the next-of-kin can order a 'preliminary copy’ of the death certificate right away and use this copy to handle many tasks relating to the decedent’s final affairs.
The Coroner’s Office uses several tools and resources, and we partner with a variety of experts to conduct investigations that confirm the identity of the deceased and accurately determine the cause & manner of death.
Next-of-kin will select a funeral home who will handle final arrangements for your loved one. We cannot offer recommendations, but we can provide you with a list of local funeral homes to help in making a selection.
The Coroner reviews each case to determine if an autopsy is necessary. We strive to consider any concerns of family members. Next-of-kin may choose to obtain an independent autopsy at their own expense.
Next-of-kin is welcome to contact our office to check on progress or review the findings of our investigation. Under Idaho law, anyone may request a copy of our final report by submitting a Public Records Request on the Bonneville County website.
Any personal effects collected by our office will remain with your loved one from the time they arrive in our facility until they are brought to the funeral home where they will be returned to the Next-of-Kin. Any medications collected by investigators are cataloged and properly disposed of.