Tracy Vallett
Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext 218
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(618) 826-5000 ext 218
(618) 826-3244
1 Taylor Street
Chester, Illinois 62233
Randy Dudenbostel
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Janice Barbour
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Jason Schlesinger
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Elizabeth Pechacek-Ohlau
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Jonathan Barbour
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Bobby Helmers
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Stephen Miles
Deputy Coroner
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Danielle Kennedy
Administrative Assistant
(618) 826-5000 ext. 137
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Office Overview
Death by natural causes is one that is primarily initiated by an illness or an internal malfunction of the body not directly influenced by external forces. For example, a person dying from complications from influenza (an infection) or a heart attack (an internal body malfunction) or sudden heart failure is a natural cause. Advanced age is not necessarily a scientifically recognized cause of death, there is always a more direct cause although it may be unknown in certain cases and could be one of a number of aging-associated diseases.
Death caused by active intervention is called unnatural death. Unnatural causes are usually: accidental (implying no unreasonable voluntary risk), misadventure (accident following a willful and dangerous risk), suicide, or homicide. In some settings, other categories may be added. For example, a prison may track the deaths of inmates caused by acute intoxication separately. Additionally, a cause of death can be recorded as undetermined.
Our office investigates the circumstances surrounding every unnatural death occurring in Randolph County. Also certain natural deaths come under the coroner’s jurisdiction. The coroner examines the evidence related to the death to discover the cause. If necessary, a jury inquest is held to determine the most likely manner of someone’s death.
Office Services
- Transcripts of Coroner’s Inquests, which are printed copies of inquest determinations.
- Autopsy Reports, which are certified copies of the pathologist’s autopsy report.
- Death Certificates
Coroner FAQs
How long does it take to acquire a death certificate?
For a natural death, the time period is normally a week to 10 days. For a death under other than natural circumstances, an average time period is two to six weeks.
What is an inquest?
An inquest is an inquiry into the manner and cause of someone’s death. Testimony is given regarding circumstances surrounding the death.
Can I obtain copies of reports concerning someone's death?
Yes. If an inquest is to be held, reports are not available until after the inquest. Certain fees apply.
How far back do the records of this office go?
The files in our office go back to 1922.