What must be done with the remains of a deceased person who dies without identification in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, when a person dies without identification, it is imperative to notify local authorities and adhere to legal protocols for handling unidentified remains. This process is crucial for several reasons. First, local authorities, such as law enforcement or the medical examiner's office, need to be involved to investigate the circumstances of the death and potentially identify the deceased. This ensures public health and safety as well as respect for the individual’s dignity.

Moreover, following the established legal protocols ensures that the chain of custody for the remains is properly maintained, which helps to avoid any legal complications in the future. The identification process may involve forensic analysis, fingerprints, or dental records to determine the deceased’s identity.

Handling remains without following this protocol could lead to violations of state laws regarding the treatment of the deceased, which could have legal ramifications for funeral directors and other involved parties. Overall, notifying local authorities is essential in maintaining ethical and legal handling of unidentified remains in Tennessee.