Kentucky Coroners Conference debuts in Bowling Green, draws statewide attendance
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – The Kentucky Coroners Association wrapped up its annual conference Thursday morning in Bowling Green, marking the first time in decades the event has been held outside of Louisville.
The four-day conference, which ran from Monday through Thursday, brought together nearly 150 coroners and deputy coroners from across the state for training, education and networking. Organizers say the event plays a critical role in helping coroners stay current on best practices and emerging issues in death investigations.
Jeff Ivers, who was sworn in as president during the conference, said the gathering allows coroners to collaborate and better serve families across Kentucky.
“We have 148 coroners and deputy coroners throughout the state of Kentucky here,” Ivers said. “To be able to be here to represent them, to talk with them, to hear their concerns, networking, it means a lot because that way each coroner or deputy coroner can take back to their county different concerns that’s going throughout the state of Kentucky.”
Throughout the week, attendees participated in sessions covering topics such as drug trends and emerging substances, specimen testing, mental health awareness and advancements in death investigation technology. Experts from across the country spoke on issues, including unidentified remains and evolving reporting systems, while vendors showcased new equipment and tools used in the field.
Kevin Kirby said the move to Bowling Green has been well-received after years of hosting the conference in Louisville.
“It has worked out great. Everybody loves it. We will come back next year,” Kirby said. “We’re proud to have it in Bowling Green, and we’re proud to be able to come here next year as well.”
Kirby added that Bowling Green’s accessibility, local amenities and strong community support helped make the event a success.
Organizers say the conference will return to Bowling Green next year, continuing efforts to provide coroners with the training and resources needed to handle increasingly complex cases across the state.
