Coroner
The County Coroner is a constitutional officer elected to a four-year term, responsible for investigating deaths occurring under unusual or suspicious circumstances. The Coroner determines cause and manner of death, coordinates with law enforcement when necessary, and ensures proper handling of death investigations as required by Colorado law.
Brad Baltzly
County Coroner
Phone: 719-285-3844
Fax: 719-783-9085
Email: coroner@custercounty-co.gov
Services & Responsibilities
The Coroner's Office investigates deaths that occur under specific circumstances as defined by Colorado law. The Coroner works closely with law enforcement, medical professionals, and families to determine cause and manner of death.
Investigations & Inquiry
Death Investigations
Investigating deaths that occur under circumstances specified by Colorado statute, including:
- Violent, sudden, or suspicious deaths
- Deaths without medical attendance
- Deaths in custody during arrest
- Deaths from unknown causes
- Deaths potentially related to public health
Medical Findings
Cause & Manner Determination
Determining the medical cause of death and the manner of death (natural, accident, suicide, homicide, or undetermined) through investigation, examination, and coordination with medical professionals.
Family Support
Family Liasion
Working with families during difficult times, providing information about the investigation process, coordinating with funeral homes, and ensuring respectful handling of deceased individuals.
Agency Coordination
Law Enforcement Coordination
Collaborating with the Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies when deaths occur under suspicious circumstancees or may involve criminal activity.
Medical Services
Medical Coordination
Working with pathologists, forensic specialists, and medical examiners to conduct autopsies and forensic examinations when necessary to determine cause of death.
Legal Documentation
Death Certification
Completing and signing death certificates for cases under the Coroner's jurisdiction, ensuring accurate documentation of cause and manner of death for official records.
Office Information
When to Contact
Contact the Coroner's Office when a death occurs under any of the following circumstances:
- Death without recent medical care
- Unexpected sudden death
- Death from an accident or injury
- Death under suspicious circumstances
- Death in custody or during arrest
Professional Resources
Important Information
Families working with hospice care should reference the hospice letter for guidance on expected deaths under hospice care.