Carbon County coroner Robert W. Miller Jr. reported that drug-related deaths in the county for 2016 was 18, the same number as in 2015. Miller reported the totals in his report for 2016.

Miller reported that 425 cases were processed through his office in the year with the following statistics:There were a total of 34 deaths classified as accidental, and of that total, 18 were drug-related. There were a total of 15 deaths classified as suicides, with one death cause being listed as undetermined.During the year, 78 percent of the dispositions were authorized for cremation.Miller said 2016 was another challenging year for his office, and at times, "Our resources as a sixth-class county are pressed to the limit." He added, "For example, this year there was an expenditure for a DNA test required to identify an individual involved in a traffic accident."Miller said despite the challenges the year offered, "We are very proud and fortunate to have a dedicated and experienced group of individuals in the office, and can report that six out of our 11 coroners are certified in Medicolegal Death Investigation Procedures as adopted by the state Attorney General's office."Miller thanked the local police departments, state police, fire departments and EMS associations for their assistance and professional attitude at the scene of incidents. He said their actions are "instrumental in conducting a thorough investigation." He also asked the cooperation of the county commissioners in allowing his office to function in an independent, professional and ethical manner.Miller also noted the cooperation of the district attorney's office and all area hospitals.Concluding, Miller said, "It is always my goal to provide an optimal level of service while at the same time not being a financial burden to the taxpayers of Carbon County."