On June 3, 2019, the Tacoma community was met with the somber discovery of James Ozanich, a 76-year-old resident of Tacoma, Washington. Found in his apartment by the building's manager, James had become unresponsive on the bathroom floor, prompting immediate concern as he had not been seen by neighbors or staff for several days. His death brought to light the challenges faced when an individual with a significant medical history passes away without immediate family presence or clear arrangements.
James Ozanich's case became the responsibility of the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office, located at 3619 Pacific Avenue in Tacoma. Staff there attempted to piece together the circumstances of his death while simultaneously ensuring that his remains were handled with the dignity and respect he deserved. They reached out to his next of kin, who expressed an intention to inform other family members, yet faced financial constraints impacting their ability to manage the disposition of his remains.
Despite this initial contact, further communication attempts from the Medical Examiner’s Office to the next of kin were unable to elicit a response. This left the office in a position where they needed to proceed without family involvement, a not uncommon challenge in such cases. The case, marked under Agency Case Number 19-1130, underscores the complexities and emotional dimensions of handling unclaimed person cases, particularly when financial difficulties and limited family involvement are factors. The Medical Examiner's Office strives to afford the deceased respectful care, even amidst the sensitive nature of an unclaimed individual.
Date Found: 06/03/2019
