San Joaquin County has a new medical examiner’s headquarters that shakes off the image of a dark, gloomy, lugubrious morgue.
The modern, 18,000-square-foot facility opened last week in French Camp with a raft of local officials on hand. Approved in 2023 at a cost of $25 million, it not only will facilitate the latest in forensic science, but also offer spaces for those who have come to grieve the loss of loved ones.
“Every case represents a loved one, and our mission is to provide answers, preserve dignity, and help bring closure and healing during an incredibly difficult time,” Paul Graves, administrator of the Office of the Medical Examiner, said in a statement. “This new facility gives our team the space, tools, and support they need to continue delivering these essential services at the highest level.”
The building replaces facilities dating back to the 1930s and includes upgraded radiology technology, improved autopsy space, expanded cooler capacity and new case management software, county officials said.
Its location in French Camp also puts the building in close proximity to the Sheriff’s Office, a convenience for homicide detectives who will be attending autopsies as part of their investigations.
County Supervisor Robert Rickman said in a social media post that the new building “improves investigative capacity, supports law enforcement, enhances public health reporting, and ensures that every case is handled with professionalism, compassion, and respect.”
San Joaquin County is one of only a handful of counties in California that operates a full Medical Examiner’s Office, officials said. Outfitted with modern equipment, the new morgue will help ensure accuracy in pinpointing causes of death.
“This state-of-the-art facility will enhance investigations, support the pursuit of justice, and strengthen the county’s ability to serve families with professionalism, accuracy, and care,” Supervisor and board Chair Sonny Dhaliwal said in his own social media post.
County supervisors gathered a year ago to sign their names to beams being erected as part of the facility and included messages of hope, love and encouragement, noting the solemnity of the work that will be done in the building.
“May God bless all who work here & bring justice, peace and closure to all of those they serve,” Rickman scrawled in a permanent message at the time.
