This article is brought to you by Elect Lisa Washington for Howard County Commissioner District 1. It’s early voting time! Primaries are now open through May 5. GO VOTE!
As your county commissioner, I will bring transparency & accountability to local government where it is sorely lacking, ensure our county facilities & infrastructure are properly managed, meaning taxpayer dollars are used more effectively, and bridge the gap in communication between our local and state elected officials to ensure your voice is heard by everyone who represents you.
#BetterHowardCounty
The Howard County Coroner’s Office investigated 53 deaths in the first quarter of 2026. Of those cases, 31 were determined to be due to natural causes.
There were three deaths by suicide, 18 accidental deaths, and one homicide. The coroner’s office also reviewed an additional 20 direct release cases. Of the 18 accidental deaths, six were the result of drug overdose. Drugs involved include methamphetamine, cocaine, ketamine, and difluoroethane gas. Of the remaining 12 accidental deaths, eight were from injuries from falls, two from motor vehicle accidents, one from ethanol toxicity, and one from cold exposure.
Of the 53 cases investigated in the first quarter, there were 12 autopsies and 24 toxicology tests performed for a total cost of $30,131. Toxicology tests for suspected drug overdose cases are paid for by the Indiana State Department of Health. All autopsies ordered by the coroner are performed by a board-certified forensic pathologist.
The coroner’s office investigates all deaths that occur from violence, casualty, in apparent good health, or have died from a suspicious, unusual, or unnatural manner. The coroner also reviews all deaths that occur in the hospital emergency rooms or within 24 hours of admission and deaths that occur during surgery or while under general anesthesia.
The coroner is responsible for establishing the identification of the deceased as well as the cause and manner of death. Further, the coroner is responsible for death notifications to the legal next of kin and personal property found on or near the decedent.