Michelle Trachtenberg’s Family’s Decision to Decline Autopsy Sparks Speculation
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Michelle-Trachtenberg-022625-16b36d53a6e74d91a42a408a161b415c.jpg)
Following the sudden death of actress Michelle Trachtenberg at the age of 39, her family made the decision to decline an autopsy, resulting in her cause of death being labelled as “undetermined.” This choice raised questions among the public, prompting legal expert Neama Rahmani, president of West Coast Lawyers, to provide insights on the matter in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
Rahmani clarified that, under the law, an autopsy is not mandatory unless the circumstances surrounding the death are suspicious. He explained that in cases where the death is not being investigated for foul play, such as murder, the family can choose to forego the autopsy process. This decision is often made to protect the privacy of the deceased and their family, as autopsy reports can sometimes contain sensitive information.
The legal expert highlighted that in instances like drug-related deaths, families may opt out of an autopsy to prevent potentially damaging details from becoming public knowledge. Reasons for declining an autopsy can also include religious beliefs, concerns for privacy, and the desire to expedite funeral arrangements and the mourning process for the deceased.
Rahmani emphasised that while the autopsy procedure might be waived for personal reasons, it remains essential in cases where there is a possibility of criminal prosecution, such as murder investigations. Preserving evidence is paramount in such situations, and the autopsy report can play a crucial role in legal proceedings, ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing.
On February 26, Michelle Trachtenberg was tragically found dead in her New York City apartment. Law enforcement responded to a distress call and discovered the actress unresponsive. Despite the lack of suspicion of foul play, her family’s objection to an autopsy led to the medical examiner conducting only an external examination of her body, resulting in the cause of death remaining inconclusive.
The decision made by Trachtenberg’s family to decline an autopsy reflects a common practice among individuals with varying motivations, including cultural, personal, and legal considerations. While some seek closure and privacy in avoiding an autopsy, others prioritise the need for transparency and thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind a loved one’s passing.
In conclusion, the circumstances surrounding Michelle Trachtenberg’s sudden death and the subsequent decision regarding an autopsy underscore the complexities involved in navigating the aftermath of a tragic loss. The choice made by her family highlights the delicate balance between respecting the deceased’s wishes and seeking justice and closure through official investigations.