Renowned Forensic Pathologist Dr. Cyril Wecht, Who Analyzed JFK's Death, Dies at 93

Dr. Cyril Wecht, a renowned forensic pathologist who analyzed the deaths of high-profile figures such as President John F. Kennedy, Elvis Presley, and JonBenet Ramsey, has passed away at the age of 93.

Dr. Cyril Wecht, a legendary figure in the field of forensic pathology, passed away peacefully on Monday at the age of 93. The Allegheny County medical examiner played a pivotal role in analyzing the deaths of numerous high-profile individuals, including President John F. Kennedy, Elvis Presley, JonBenet Ramsey, Anna Nicole Smith, and Gabby Petito.

"He was the first civilian permitted to examine the evidence from the assassination of President John F. Kennedy at the National Archives," an obituary from the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts states. "He was the nation's foremost critic of the Warren Commission's infamous single bullet theory."

Dr. Wecht conducted tens of thousands of autopsies, testified in countless criminal and civil cases, and authored dozens of books and hundreds of scholarly articles. He collaborated on award-winning films such as "JFK" and "Concussion."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro described Dr. Wecht as "a legendary figure in forensic pathology and criminal justice," adding that "the way he pursued truth and justice is an inspiration."

Dr. Michael Baden, also a renowned forensic pathologist, worked with Dr. Wecht on the Select Committee on Assassinations for the U.S. House of Representatives. He described his late colleague as "very smart" and "devoted to his family."

Dr. Wecht was born to immigrant parents in 1931. He graduated from Fifth Avenue High School as class valedictorian and went on to study at the University of Pittsburgh. After earning his medical degree, he joined the U.S. Air Force, where he met his wife.

While serving in the Air Force, Dr. Wecht obtained his law degree from the University of Maryland. He later obtained a second law degree from Pittsburgh University.

In 1959, Dr. Wecht was elected as Allegheny County coroner. He later served as Allegheny County's first chief medical examiner. He founded the Pittsburgh Institute of Legal Medicine and the Cyril H. Wecht Institute of Forensic Science and Law at Duquesne University.

Dr. Wecht's dedication to discovering the truth surrounding deaths and injuries brought comfort and justice to countless families. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy as a pioneer in forensic pathology will continue to inspire generations to come.