Butler County Coroner investigates possible COVID-19 death

The Butler County Coroner’s Office has been notified of a possible COVID-19 death.

Coroner Andy Moore said in a news release his office is involved with a death “involving a person under investigation for COVID-19. As of the time of this press release, the test is pending.”

Moore said he can’t release at this time whether the death involves a Butler County resident or someone brought here for treatment or when the death occurred.

“Out of respect for the privacy of the family, I will not release any information about the deceased,” Moore said.

At this time, Moore said, he can’t say when the test was done or when results will be returned.

“It is being expedited, but I can’t give a time line of any kind,” Moore said. “Hopefully, in the next day or so (more information will be available). That’s my goal.

“I understand the panic of it, but want to be transparent with what we’re dealing with. I believe the citizens deserve that.”

All state and local agencies have been notified at this time, Moore said.

Any positive COVID-19 tests will be relayed to the State of Missouri for proper reporting and announcements, Moore said.