Manner of Death: The Six Categories Explained
Manner of death is the category that describes how a death came about, as opposed to the medical condition that caused it. The CDC's handbook for medical examiners and coroners, citing the National Association of Medical Examiners, lists these categories.
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| Category | What it means |
|---|---|
| Natural | Death due solely or nearly totally to disease or the aging process |
| Accident | Little or no evidence that the injury or poisoning was intended to cause harm or death |
| Suicide | An intentional, self-inflicted act meant to cause one's own death |
| Homicide | Death from an injury, poisoning or volitional act by another person |
| Could not be determined | Evidence for one manner is no more compelling than for competing manners |
| Pending investigation | More information is needed before the manner can be decided |
Cause versus manner
Cause of death names the disease or injury. Manner of death groups the circumstances. For example, the cause could be a particular injury, while the manner could be accident or homicide.
Who decides
The certifier decides, usually a physician, medical examiner or coroner. Deaths involving accident, suicide or homicide are referred to a medical examiner or coroner. Pending cases should be updated once the investigation is complete.
Frequently asked questions
Is manner of death the same as cause of death?
No. Cause is the medical reason for death. Manner is the category describing how it happened.
What does pending mean?
The CDC handbook says pending is used when the manner depends on further information, and the record should be updated afterward.
Is manner of death on every certified copy?
Not necessarily. Washington, for example, omits cause and manner of death from its informational copies. Rules vary by state.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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