FAQs • York County, SC • CivicEngage

Who decides when an autopsy is needed and who pays for it?: The coroner/deputy coroner will decide whether or not an autopsy will be necessary on a case by case bases. If the coroner/deputy coroner make the decision to conduct an autopsy the county will be responsible for the cost. If the legal next-of-kin feels they would like a private autopsy, it will be up to that individual to make arrangements with the Pathologist of their choice and they will be responsible for the cost.

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Coroner

1. What is your phone number, fax number and mailing address?: Phone Number:
(803) 909-8400
Fax Number:
(803) 324-9595
Mailing Address:
933 Heckle Boulevard
Suite 103
Rock Hill, SC 29732

2. Who can get copies of a decedent's reports and how?: One copy is issued to the immediate next-of-kin at no cost. The next-of-kin can get a copy of their loved one's reports by mailing or faxing a written request. This request should include the decedent's name and date of death. Please include a return mailing address. Insurance companies can also obtain a copy of the Coroner's report by faxing a request on their company letterhead.

3. How can personal property be reclaimed?: The immediate next-of-kin should call the office 803-684-8576 and schedule an appointment to pick up property.

4. Where can I get a copy of a Death Certificate?: The Funeral Home will provide this for you. The funeral home will ask the family how many copies will be needed when the arrangements are made. If additional copies are needed at a later time you can get them from the vital records in the Department of Health and Environmental Control. The building is located at:
York County Complex
1070 Heckle Boulevard
Rock Hill, SC 29732
(803) 909-7300

5. Who decides when an autopsy is needed and who pays for it?: The coroner/deputy coroner will decide whether or not an autopsy will be necessary on a case by case bases. If the coroner/deputy coroner make the decision to conduct an autopsy the county will be responsible for the cost. If the legal next-of-kin feels they would like a private autopsy, it will be up to that individual to make arrangements with the Pathologist of their choice and they will be responsible for the cost.

6. Should the Coroner have a medical license?: South Carolina statute does not require the coroner to have a medical license.

7. Should the Coroner be a funeral director?: No, the Coroner's office has no responsibilities regarding the preparation of a body for burial.

8. Why is the Coroner involved?: State law requires the Coroner to inquire into and determine the circumstances, manner, and cause of all unexpected, violent or unusual deaths. Certain natural deaths must be investigated as well. Law enforcement and emergency medical services may also respond.

9. Where will my relative/friend be taken?: They will be taken to Piedmont Medical Hospital. York County has facilities to receive and safeguard the deceased at this location.

10. How will my relative/friend be transported to this facility?: York County has a contract with a private transport company who is highly professional and experienced in the field of securely transporting the deceased. Transportation is done under the direct supervision of the Coroner or deputy on scene.

11. Is it necessary for me to come to the Coroner's office to identify the body?: No. In a majority of cases, visual identification is not necessary to positively identify the deceased.

12. What are the office hours?: The Coroner's Office is open, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, there is always at least 1 investigator and 1 administrative staff member on call 24 hours a days. If you are looking to pick up property or get copies of any records, it is always best that you call ahead of time to ensure these items are available.