From the Archives: NEWS RELEASE: Multnomah County Medical Examiner reports second suspected death in August 2023 heat emergency

August 16, 2023

Further tests and investigation will determine whether the death is officially heat-related

Multnomah County, Ore. (Aug. 16, 2023) — The Multnomah County Medical Examiner’s Program today reports it is investigating a second suspected heat death during this week’s heat emergency. The death occurred Tuesday, Aug. 15, when the temperature outside was approximately 102 degrees Fahrenheit, and was reported by a Portland hospital. 

No other details are being reported at this time. It is the second death suspected of being heat-caused during this August heat wave. The Medical Examiner is also investigating a suspected heat death reported Monday, Aug. 14, after an individual died in southeast Portland.

Both deaths reported by the Medical Examiner are considered preliminary suspected cases and are under investigation as potential heat-related deaths. Further tests and investigation will determine whether the deaths are officially heat-related. The County will update this information as it becomes available.

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