Epstein Autopsy Doctor Details Why She Initially Withheld Suicide Ruling
The medical examiner who first examined Jeffrey Epstein's body has disclosed why she hesitated to determine his death was a suicide, according to newly released documents. Epstein was found deceased inside a New York City jail cell on August 10, 2019, following his arrest on sex trafficking charges. Officials swiftly ruled his death a suicide, but lingering doubts from associates have fueled conspiracy theories for years.
Medical Examiner's Thorough Approach Delayed Official Determination
Documents released this year under the Epstein Files Transparency Act reveal that Dr. Kristin Roman, the New York City medical examiner who performed Epstein's autopsy, initially checked the "pending studies" box on his death certificate rather than selecting "homicide" or "suicide." In a May 2022 interview transcript reviewed by Business Insider, Roman explained she was "being thorough" by waiting to officially rule on the cause of death. She emphasized she was certain Epstein hanged himself, stating, "If he had been a less high-profile person who there weren't people wanting to kill, I would have probably called it a hanging on the day of autopsy."
Roman reportedly wanted to speak to the officer who discovered Epstein's body and inspect his jail cell before making her final determination. Although she was not permitted to interview correctional officers or view the cell directly, she was provided with photographs of the room. She told investigators these limitations did not affect her conclusion that Epstein died by suicide, noting, "It would have been more for completeness rather than a big factor in making the determination." Shortly after Roman's initial assessment, Dr. Barbara Sampson, New York City's chief medical examiner at the time, officially ruled Epstein's death a suicide.
Persistent Theories and High-Profile Skepticism
Seven years after Epstein's death, theories alleging murder continue to circulate. Dr. Michael Baden, a forensic pathologist hired by Epstein's family, maintains the death was a homicide, citing three fractures found in Epstein's neck that he claims are consistent with strangulation. Baden and Epstein's brother, Mark Epstein, both told Business Insider they still believe Epstein was killed after reviewing Roman's interview. Sampson has previously pushed back on Baden's claims, stating in October 2019 that she stands "firmly behind our determination of the cause and manner of death for Mr. Epstein," according to the Associated Press.
Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein's convicted accomplice serving a 20-year prison sentence, added to the controversy during a July 2025 interview with the Justice Department. She stated, "I do not believe he died by suicide, no," though when asked if she had any idea who might have killed Epstein, she replied, "No, I don't." The Epstein case has captivated the nation, with renewed interest sparked by political promises to release more information. Under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, millions of files related to the investigation have been disclosed, including thousands of emails, documents, photos, and videos referencing high-profile figures like former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. Appearing in these files does not imply guilt, and Trump has not been formally accused of a crime in connection with the Epstein probe.
If you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline available 24/7. In the UK, you can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. For international support, visit www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
