What action does the district Medical Examiner take if they find an unmarked human burial less than 75 years old?

The district Medical Examiner assumes jurisdiction over an unmarked human burial that is less than 75 years old because it falls under their responsibility to investigate circumstances surrounding any unexplained or undocumented death. When a burial site is discovered, especially one that lacks markers and is relatively recent, it raises questions about potential criminal activity or the need for identification and proper handling of the remains.

Upon assuming jurisdiction, the Medical Examiner is mandated to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain the identity of the deceased, the cause of death, and whether any foul play was involved. This process is crucial not only for legal reasons but also to provide answers to the deceased's family and the community.

In contrast, actions like ignoring the burial, merely consulting local authorities without taking control of the situation, or reaching out to next of kin would not fulfill the legal obligations of the Medical Examiner. These actions could lead to inadequate investigation and a lack of clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the burial. Therefore, assuming jurisdiction is essential for ensuring that all appropriate legal and ethical guidelines are followed in the case of an unmarked burial.