Renowned Pathologist Cyril Wecht, Former Allegheny County Coroner, Passes Away at Age 93 – WPXI

Renowned Forensic Pathologist Cyril Wecht Dies at 93

PITTSBURGH — Cyril Wecht, a world-renowned forensic pathologist who served Allegheny County for two decades, has passed away at the age of 93. The news of his death was confirmed by a spokesperson for the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts on Monday.

Wecht was known for his tireless work in uncovering the truth behind deaths and injuries, bringing comfort and justice to countless families worldwide. During his time in Allegheny County, he held various roles, including in the coroner’s office, the district attorney’s office, and as a pathologist at the VA.

As the Allegheny County coroner, Wecht conducted over 21,000 autopsies and was consulted on thousands of additional postmortem exams. He was involved in high-profile cases such as O.J. Simpson, Kurt Cobain, and the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.

Wecht also had a significant impact in academia, teaching at several Pittsburgh area schools and founding the Pittsburgh Institute of Legal Medicine and the Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law at Duquesne University.

Duquesne University President Ken Gormley expressed his condolences, stating that Wecht will be sorely missed by the university community. Governor Josh Shapiro also paid tribute to Wecht, calling him a legendary figure in forensic pathology and criminal justice.

Wecht’s funeral and burial will be private, with a public memorial service to be announced at a later date. He is survived by his wife, four children, and 11 grandchildren. Contributions in his memory can be made to Stand With Us.