The state morgue near the Wilmington Riverfront will get upgrades.
Renovations at the Division of Forensic Science (DFS) will include:
- A new HVAC system, which will provide a dedicated service to the morgue area versus the current shared system:
- Two new body coolers, replacing the aged coolers;
- New epoxy floor in the morgue area;
- Three new autopsy workstations;
- A new emergency generator to replace the current system which is beyond repair.
The project is slated to begin in mid-July and is expected to last between three to six months. During the construction phase, all autopsy and morgue operations will be handled at the DFS Georgetown office in addition to an offsite state-owned location established for the holding of bodies.
The daily operations for the forensic chemistry, toxicology, and DNA units will not be impacted and will remain at the Wilmington site.
“We are fully committed to our mission and excited for these much-needed updates. They will not only improve the work environment but also assist in maintaining accreditation through the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME),” stated DFS Director John Evans.
The division had been in turmoil a few years ago over management and operational problems that included facilities in need of an upgrade.
The division was transferred from the Department of Health and Social Services to the Division of Safety and Homeland Security, raising some concerns about the possibility of overly close ties to law enforcement.
Officials have said the agency will act independently.
