What Happens If a Loved One Dies in Custody: San Bernardino County Coroner Process

To reach the San Bernardino County Coroner, call (909) 387-2978. If you are trying to coordinate time-sensitive decisions, calling during business hours gives you the best chance of reaching the right staff quickly.

The Coroner lobby is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Plan any in-person visits around those hours.

Mortuary releases happen Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. No releases on holidays, so expect delays if a holiday falls during the process.

Expect a transportation fee of $348.00 for transport from the scene or hospital to the Coroner facility. This fee is approved by the Board of Supervisors.

• ✓ The legal next-of-kin may request a private autopsy through the Coroner.
• ✓ The charge for a private autopsy is $3,734.00.
• ✓ Payment must be by cashier’s check or money order.

Death certificates come through the mortuary or funeral home, not the Coroner. You'll need to request yours from whichever funeral service you're working with.

1. Call the San Bernardino County Coroner (909) 387-2978 to ask what you need to do next for your situation.
2. Use the lobby hours to plan your timing. The Coroner lobby is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
3. Be ready for possible transportation costs. A $348.00 transportation fee may be charged for transport from the scene or hospital to the Coroner facility.