Thurston County Coroner's Office

07/31/2020

*PRESS RELEASE*
The attached document is meant to clarify and correct much of the misinformation that continues to be circulated throughout the community about the death of Yvonne McDonald.

09/28/2019

09/24/2018

In a recent interview, Coroner John Fudenberg talked about calling his staff on Oct. 1. “They know what responding to this means,” he said. “It’s going to be months and mont…

08/24/2018

August 24, 2018
* PRESS RELEASE *
Death of Yvonne McDonald

On the evening of Aug 7, 2018, the Thurston County Coroner’s Office was notified by Providence St. Peter Hospital of the death of 56 year-old Yvonne McDonald. Hospital staff indicated Ms. McDonald had been transported to their facility by medics after being discovered earlier that morning lying unconscious in a neighbor’s yard a few blocks from her own apartment. She was reportedly found to be hypothermic, partially clothed with some insect activity and exhibiting some scratches and bruises.
Due to the sudden, unexpected and suspicious death of Ms. McDonald, an investigation by this office began immediately. Medical records and x-rays were requested and received. Ms. McDonald was transported to the Coroner’s Office where photographs were obtained and an autopsy was conducted by a forensic pathologist. The autopsy revealed no signs of a sexual assault, strangulation, stab wounds or gunshot wounds. Specimens were drawn for analysis and sent to the WA State Toxicology Lab, however those results are not to be expected for several months.
As stated, Ms. McDonald’s death was sudden, unexpected and suspicious in nature. We will not comment or speculate as to how she died until all of the evidence is carefully and methodically examined. This also includes the autopsy and toxicology findings. Until all of those results are in, Ms. McDonald’s cause and manner of death are pending.
Out of respect to Ms. McDonald and her family, some aspects of the investigation will not be shared with the public as it pertains to her medical history. However, those of Ms. McDonald’s family have been and will continue to be informed.
This office is committed to the citizens of Thurston County to ensure that every death is investigated thoroughly and professionally and that the bereaved are treated with the utmost compassion and sensitivity.
Anyone who may have information regarding the circumstances surrounding Ms. McDonald’s whereabouts prior to her being discovered is urged to call the Thurston County Coroner’s Office at 360-867-2140 or Olympia Police Detective Al Weinnig at 360-753-8300

Regards,
Gary Warnock
Thurston County Coroner

10/31/2017

Meet Gary Warnock, Thurston County Coroner since 2006. Gary's is known for his compassionate service to the community and families in difficult times.

09/14/2017

World Su***de Prevention Month

Thurston County is experiencing an alarming amount of su***des. If you or someone you know is thinking of su***de, help is available 24/7. Please call a friend or loved one or dial 911 for assitance. Please also call The Crisis Clinic of Thurston and Mason Counties at 360-586-2800 or the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255