Necropsy Observation Essay

INTRODUCTION: The following is my descriptive report of an autopsy performed on a middle, aged man who was involved in a motor vehicle accident. The autopsy was performed by Dr. Braun at the Clark County Medical Examiners’ office in Vancouver, Washington. I chose to observe an autopsy as opposed to a necropsy because in my career, I have performed many necropsies over the years. These necropsies were not forensic in nature and most likely lacked proper procedure. I wanted to observe how an autopsy is performed to be able to compare it to previous necropsies I have performed, as well as understand the differences and or similarities between an autopsy and a necropsy.

There is a difference between performing a necropsy in private practice to gain knowledge of death and a forensic necropsy that will be used in a court of law.

I supplied them with documentation of my veterinary medical license, proof that I was taking veterinary forensics at the university of Florida and a copy of my curriculum vitae. I would be notified when the next gross necropsy would be performed.

Autopsies are part of a death investigation and are performed based on state statute and protocol. The state of Washington will perform an autopsy if there is suspect of homicide, unusual circumstances of death, and unattended deaths. This was an unattended death.

CRIME SCENE FINDINGS: Information regarding the specifics of the crash scene investigation was not available for my review. I would assume the motor vehicle death scene investigation would consist of the standard collection of evidence, such as measurements of skid marks, photographs, sketches, documentation of the position and condition of the vehicle., collection of any alcohol containers present, pieces of broken glass or samples of blood if present. This would help in determining if a driving law was