01/01/2026
In 2018, Last Responder created and organized the very first Medicolegal Death Investigation Professionals Week to shine a light on a profession that has long stood in quiet service to our communities.
We chose the last week of January intentionally - not randomly, not arbitrarily.
It was chosen to honor the moment death investigation officially became part of American history.
Here’s a little history…
The coroner system originated in medieval England as representatives of the Crown, responsible for investigations, oversight, and ensuring legal and financial accountability in death. The system was later brought to North America by the colonists, where it became embedded in early American governance.
On January 29, 1637, Thomas Baldridge of St. Mary’s, Maryland, was appointed as the first coroner in what would later become the United States.
That milestone marked the beginning of a system built to safeguard truth, dignity, public safety, and accountability in death.
This week exists because our profession deserves recognition.
It exists because the individuals who perform this work deserve access to mental health resources, structured training, and clear standards that support professional excellence.
It exists because the work done by coroners, medical examiners, pathologists, investigators, and forensic professionals profoundly matters - even when the world doesn’t see it.
When Last Responder created this week back in 2018, our hope was simple:
• Bring awareness
• Facilitate unity and standardization
• Encourage appreciation
• Advocate for wellness
• Honor those behind the work
Today, we are incredibly proud to see organizations across the nation - including the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners - IACME - and many others worldwide - stand with us in elevating and celebrating Medicolegal Death Investigation Professionals.
What began as a vision has grown into a shared movement of recognition, support, and respect - and we couldn’t be more proud of how far we’ve come, even knowing there is still more work ahead.
To every professional in this field - thank you for your compassion, your resilience, your professionalism, and your unwavering commitment to truth and dignity.
You are seen. You are valued. You are essential.
So please join us - this year and every year that follows - during the last week of January (January 25–31, 2026) to honor the Last Responders who ensure every life, every story, and every death matters.
Do we have any followers from the St. Mary’s area of Maryland??
