DHSS Press Release |
Date: January 11, 2008 DHSS-5-2008 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUTOPSY DETERMINES DPC PATIENT DEATH NATURAL
New Castle - The autopsy conducted by Delaware's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has determined that the final manner of death of DPC patient Alan S. Menefee was natural. The 41-year-old died on the morning of Wednesday, December 26, 2007 in his room at the Delaware Psychiatric Center.
In handling the incident, DPC staff followed strict investigative guidelines and called State Troopers and EMS Units to the Sussex Building of DPC at approximately 7:00 a.m. As is standard procedure in death investigations, Menefee's body was turned over to the State Medical Examiner's Office to determine the cause and manner of death.
"There is nothing we take more seriously than our responsibility to ensure the health and safety of those who are most vulnerable and in state custody," said Guy Perrotti, DPC Hospital Director. "While we are saddened by the death of any patient, today's determination was as expected."
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
