What happens when a body can not be identified?

The Coroner’s Bureau issues unidentified cases a unique “Unidentified” number, which is updated to the decedent’s names when and if the identification is made.  Some cases cannot be identified by forensic or scientific means.  Long term unidentified decedents are referred to the Public Administrator’s Bureau of the Sheriff's Office for disposition of their remains.  Remains of unidentified decedents are buried at a contracted cemetery only after all means to identify the decedent have been explored.  The Coroner’s Bureau publishes information on their website on all long-term unidentified cases.

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1. Can we come and see him/her?
2. Where is our loved one being taken?
3. Is an autopsy always performed?
4. Why are autopsies performed?
5. Does an autopsy prevent viewing of the body at the funeral home?
6. How long is the body kept at the Coroner's office?
7. What do we do now?
8. What about personal property items?
9. When can we have the funeral?
10. How do we obtain death certificates?
11. Can we contact the Coroner's Bureau?
12. What if the medical cause of death is not found during the autopsy?
13. Are there fees for the Coroner's services?
14. How do we obtain the Coroner's reports (Coroner's Packet)?
15. How do the next of kin of a homeless person get notified if a homeless person dies?
16. What happens when a body can not be identified?
17. How does the Coroner's Office I.D. an unidentified person?