Marathon County medical examiner reports in-county autopsies, new forensic center and regional services

Jessica, director of operations for the Marathon County Medical Examiner's Office, briefed the committee on the office's responsibilities, staffing and recent operational changes.

Jessica said the office determines cause and manner of death for cases that fall within county jurisdiction — generally deaths that are not clearly natural or that occur outside of a physician's care. The office conducts scene investigations, medical-record reviews and, where needed, post-mortem examinations.

She told the committee the office has eight full-time staff and five occasional staff. In May 2025 the office transitioned from a lay medical-examiner model to a physician-led office when Dr. Leah Schubner joined the team. Since moving into the new Forensic Science Center in July 2025, Jessica said the office completes post-mortem examinations in county rather than transporting decedents elsewhere.

The office also provides cremation authorizations, supports death-review teams for prevention and collects statistical data. Jessica said the office has onboarded 19 regional counties for autopsy services and is developing contracts with local hospitals to provide autopsy support to community partners.

Committee members asked whether the leased morgue space at Marshfield Medical Center remained necessary; Jessica said it was used temporarily while the new facility opened and is no longer required. Staff described the Marshfield lease as helpful for standing up policies and training before the forensic center became available.

Why it matters: Bringing autopsy services in-county can shorten investigative timelines, reduce transport costs and support local public-health and law enforcement partners. The office's expansion to serve regional counties affects intercounty resource sharing and workload.

Next steps: The committee did not take action; staff answered clarifying questions and thanked the presenters.