TechnologyJuly 9, 2026

coroner

/ˈkɔːrənər/

Definition

A public official whose primary duty is to investigate the causes and circumstances of deaths that occur in suspicious, accidental, or unexplained ways.

Etymology

Derived from the Anglo-Norman 'corouner' and Old French 'coroner,' meaning 'officer of the crown.' It originally referred to an official responsible for protecting the financial interests of the Crown regarding deaths and property.

In the news

The article mentions a coroner in the context of using AI-generated images to assist in the identification of an unhoused person who died. This highlights the expanding role of technology in forensic investigation and public safety.

AI-powered 911 technology changing emergency response across metro Atlanta

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CBS News

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