Right after it happens
What if I find someone dead and I don't know them?
Short answer
Call 911. That is the only correct first step. Do not touch or move anything. You are not responsible for what happens next — that is the coroner's job.
What this usually means
Call 911. That is the only correct first step. Do not touch or move anything. You are not responsible for what happens next — that is the coroner's job.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.