> when my brother died at home, in bed, with his wife, in evanston so > same state different city, an autopsy had to be performed. What if a > relative came back 5 months later and claimed the wife killed him? > what if a home intruder killed the person, including by feeding carbon > monoxide into the building or something even less obvious? besides > possible criminal behavior, there is inheritance issues. Or if he died > from eating bad food, somebody to be sued by heirs. the hospital is > excluded because the doctor's statement is sufficient.
Straight from the horse's mouth: https://www.cookcountyil.gov/content/medical-examiner-frequently-asked-questions "What types of death are investigated by the Medical Examiner? In general, those deaths suspected to be homicides, suicides, accidents or sudden unexpected natural deaths are investigated by the Medical Examiner’s Office." "Will an autopsy always be performed? No. An autopsy is performed at the Medical Examiner’s discretion based on all of the information available at the time of examination. An autopsy may not be required when the death is known to be the result of natural causes, adequate medical history exists and there are no signs of foul play. Autopsies are required when there is evidence or reasonable suspicion of foul play." -Ali
