Which professional is tasked with the burial of unidentified persons?

The Coroner is responsible for the burial of unidentified persons because their role involves overseeing the investigation and identification of deceased individuals, particularly in cases of sudden or unexplained deaths. When a body is found and remains unidentified, the Coroner works to determine the cause of death and to make efforts toward identifying the deceased. If identification is not possible, the Coroner often facilitates arrangements for the burial or cremation of the body according to state laws and regulations.

In Florida, it’s important for the Coroner to ensure that unidentified remains are respectfully handled and interred, as part of their duty to maintain public health and dignity for the deceased. This process includes coordinating with local agencies and ensuring that proper procedures are followed for the burial of unclaimed bodies, typically in potter’s fields or similar burial sites designated for this purpose.

While Funeral Directors might be involved in the arrangements for burial once the deceased is identified, their role is typically more focused on those who have relatives or who can be identified. The Medical Examiner has a role in determining the cause of death, but identification and burial duties fall under the Coroner's responsibilities. The County Commissioner may have oversight roles in terms of managing county resources, but does not directly perform the burial of unidentified bodies.