The Coroner’s office is a twenty-four hour a day, seven-day a week operation which investigates and determines Cause and Manner of Death. Coroner Mark Goolsby and his staff investigate cases of homicide, suicide, accident and all natural deaths that are sudden, unexpected or medically unattended. The Coroner’s office is charged by Georgia Law to determine the Cause and Manner of Death by an extensive investigation which may include a post-mortem examination. This investigation is independent of the sheriff, police and/or fire departments but is done in conjunction with those other entities.

A post-mortem examination (autopsy) is ordered by this office only when it is vital in the determination of Cause and Manner of Death. When ordered by this office, a charge for the autopsy is never incurred by the family. Our autopsies are only performed by a Board Certified Forensic Pathologist. Autopsies do not preclude an open casket viewing.ark