Coroner Key Roles

Department Menu

Key Roles

Key Roles of various agencies in a death investigation.

County Coroner’s Role in a Death Investigation

Conduct independent investigationDraw toxicology samples
Determine date & time of deathComplete death certificate
Determine cause of deathInsure final disposition
Determine manner of deathReport to other state & federal agencies
Document & record all injuriesAssist law enforcement, prosecutor & medical examiner

Law Enforcement’s Role in a Death Investigation
Visit the Benton County Sherriff Website

Conducts investigation & interviews
Collects & stores evidence
Completes reports for criminal prosecution
Insures safety, & wellbeing of others in the home
Detain & arrest suspects in criminal death cases

Medical Examiner’s Role in a Death Investigation
Visit Arkansas State Crime Laboratory

Performs forensic autopsies only at the request of the Coroner, law enforcement , or the Prosecutor
Determines cause of death
Conducts consults to the Coroner in order to complete death certificate

Prosectuing Attorney’s Role in a Death Investigation
Visit the Benton County Prosecuting Attorney

Gathers all investigative reports
Reviews state laws
May conduct independent investigation & interviews
Files criminal charges against person causing the death due to intent, carelessness or neglect
  • County Coroner

    Daniel Oxford

    Contact

    Coroner’s Office

    1275 Melissa Dr.
    Bentonville, AR 72712

    8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
    Open through lunch

    Phone

    479-621-0223

    If a death occurs outside of a medical facility, you need to contact:
    479-273-5532

    If the death occurred in a home, both an officer and coroner will be sent to the residence.