Jasper County coroner explains temporary morgue operation after Joplin tornado

The following news released was issued by the city of Joplin:

As some families are waiting to learn the whereabouts of their loved ones after Sunday’s tornado, the Jasper County Coroner’s office continues their work to expedite the process of identifying loved ones. Because of the concern for misidentification, Rob Chappel, Jasper County Coroner, has established a specific process to diminish possible situations when this might occur.


A temporary morgue has been established by the Jasper County Coroner’s office in response to the disaster caused by the May 22 disaster.

“We know this a very difficult time for everyone, especially those who have not seen their loved one, since the storm,” he said. “We want to assure the public that we are taking an abundance of caution and desire to do the right thing in order for families to have confidence in the process, as well as the results.”

Chappel explained that this type of disaster can cause the human body‘s appearance to change, or be altered by the elements, making it not only difficult for identification, but also a very emotional and stressful for all involved.

“This has been a terrible tragedy for all involved,” he said. “It’s important for everyone to understand the process and reasons there are guidelines in this work. Our process is developed in an effort to take away any doubt that the proper identification has been done. We are focused on the loss of the families and I want them to know that. It’s a traumatic process for us, for them, for all involved.”

As some families are able to identify their loved ones already, Chappel provides the following information to those still seeking this opportunity. He asks that loved ones bring specific descriptions of the person, along with photographs, and any other details, such as scars, piercings, and/or tattoos. If photos exist of these body markings, they can also be helpful. Families should bring these items to the Wilcoxon Health Center at Missouri Southern State University. A representative with the Family Assistance Center will accept these items, and conduct an interview to learn more personal information about the loved one. The FAC is meeting with families from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

If there are questions about this process, or you would like to speak with someone handling the temporary morgue operation, please call 417-659-5464.

City Manager Mark Rohr commented on this area as being a difficult issue to address. “Although coroner operations are not a part of the City’s operations, we are working very closely with them and want to support them in their efforts to ensure that loved ones are able to have proper closure if they have suffered a loss. Meanwhile, the City’s focus is still on search and rescue along with the stages of the initial cleanup process.”

Rohr continued, referring to Rob’s statement, “As Rob stated, this is a traumatic situation and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding in this process. They are not trying to slow down the process, but more importantly they are working to be confident that proper identification is being done.”