Dr. Gary L. Collins Named Delaware Chief Medical Examiner

Today Lewis D. Schiliro, Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security, announced the appointment of Dr. Gary L. Collins as Delaware’s Chief Medical Examiner.  Dr. Collins will oversee the many forensic and pathology testing functions performed by the Division of Forensic Science (DFS).

“Working to get the new Division of Forensic Science fully operationally is a top priority,” said Governor Jack Markell. “Because Dr. Collins has worked extensively in the field of forensic science, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our State at a time when it is needed most. He stands ready to help us meet the challenges ahead as the Division moves forward with its transition.”

Dr. Collins, who is currently serving as a Deputy Chief Medical Examiner for the City of Philadelphia, has performed thousands of autopsies certifying the manner and cause of death in more than 4,000 cases.  As second in command for the past two years, he has supervised the operations of the Medical Examiner’s Officer while collaborating with other staff overseeing the forensic investigators and autopsy technicians as well as clerical staff.

“Dr. Collins comes to Delaware, having served for over seven years in the Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office including two years as Deputy Chief Medical Examiner, with forensic, pathology and court experience. He is sure to provide a fresh perspective to the position and will help us reinvigorate this new Division of Forensic Science,” Sec. Schiliro said.

While employed in a large urban setting such as Philadelphia with several major medical training centers and pediatric hospitals, Dr. Collins gained experience in a variety of forensic, medical, and public health-related cases and formed valuable professional relationships with medical faculty at the various institutions.

Dr. Collins, a graduate of the University of West Indies, completed his pathology residency at the University of South Florida and his forensic pathology residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine. He is also board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology and forensic pathology.

“I bring a number of years of experience in the field of forensic pathology gained while working in a busy office. I look forward to working with the Division and enhancing the practice of forensic science in Delaware,” Dr. Collins said. As a Delaware resident, this is also a great opportunity for me to work closer to my home.”

“Dr. Collins will improve and further the function of pathology,” said Randall L. Hughes, DFS Acting Director. “He is a proven leader and expert in his field. We welcome him to our team”

Dr. Collins fills a vacancy created by the dismissal of Dr. Richard Callery in July.