To whom should a death certificate be filed if the place of death is unknown?

When the place of death is unknown, the death certificate should be filed with the local registrar. This is because local registrars are responsible for maintaining official records of vital statistics, including death certificates, for their designated areas. The local registrar serves as the initial point of contact for death certificates and is equipped to handle situations where the circumstances surrounding a death may be unclear. Filing with the local registrar allows for proper processing and ensures that the certificate is recorded accurately according to state requirements.

In situations where the cause of death or the exact details might be uncertain, the local registrar can facilitate the necessary inquiries and coordinate with the relevant authorities to clarify the circumstances. This local processing is essential for maintaining accurate demographic data and facilitating any follow-up actions considered appropriate under Missouri law.