Tarrant County grapples with next of kin issues following man's hospital case

The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened on April 16, 2025, to address various issues concerning health services and the treatment of deceased individuals without next of kin. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the case of a man from Tarrant County, whose circumstances raised questions about the processes in place for handling the belongings and remains of individuals who pass away without family.

The discussion began with Mister Leggett, who inquired about how Tarrant County determines that an individual has no next of kin. He shared details about the deceased, who had worked for the same company for 40 years and was not living in a homeless encampment. Leggett noted that the individual was separated from his job in April 2023, was hospitalized on May 5, 2023, and passed away the following day.

Leggett recounted his efforts to gather information, including visits to the deceased's workplace and John Peter Smith Hospital. He expressed concern over the hospital's lack of clear procedures regarding the handling of personal belongings of patients who pass away. According to the hospital's patient advocacy department, belongings are typically kept at the nurses' station for about a week before being discarded if unclaimed.

Additionally, Leggett reached out to the Tarrant County examiner's office, where he learned that since the individual did not die from homicide or suicide, there was limited information available. The examiner's office provided him with contact information for UNT scientists, indicating where the body was likely transported.

Throughout the meeting, Leggett emphasized the importance of dignity and respect for those who have died, highlighting the need for better processes to ensure that personal belongings are handled appropriately and that deceased individuals are treated with the respect they deserve.

The committee's discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by health services in managing cases of individuals without next of kin, prompting calls for improved protocols and greater accountability in the treatment of deceased persons. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these issues and seek solutions that honor the dignity of all individuals.