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Jefferson County medical examiner reports rising cremations, 23 suicides in 2023 and ongoing fentanyl prevalence
Summary
Medical Examiner Nicole Donovan reported on 2023 caseload trends (614 cases in the annual report, projected 650–675 for current year), an increase in cremations, and that fentanyl was the most prevalent drug in overdose deaths; she asked the board for guidance on additional data breakdowns.
Nicole Donovan, Jefferson County Medical Examiner, presented the office’s annual report covering 2023 statistics, operations and staffing, and priorities for record digitization and staff certification.
Donovan said the report covers 614 cases for the year cited and that 2024 is already running higher; she told supervisors the office expects between 650 and 675 cases this year. She described a growing trend toward cremation as a common disposition and noted the office issues roughly 500 cremation permits annually. On manners of death, Donovan said the medical examiner’s office recorded 23 suicides in 2023 and that fentanyl and its analogs continue to be the most prevalent drugs in overdose deaths. "Fentanyl is always the most prevalent drug we're finding," she said.
Donovan also reviewed operational improvements: a new MIS database to replace an older Microsoft Access system, training and certification goals for staff (American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators exam), and continued contract autopsy services with the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office while that office builds a new facility in Wauwatosa projected to open in spring 2026.
In response to a board request, Donovan agreed to provide additional age‑group breakdowns and demographic details in next year’s materials. She also highlighted local prevention efforts — including the county’s suicide prevention team and overdose fatality review team — and urged continued community outreach on prevention and hazard spots for traffic fatalities.
