Iwilei autopsy facility re-opens after $5.9M transformation

IWILEI, Hawaii (KHON2) — After completing nearly $6 million in renovations, the Department of the Medical Examiner received a modern look for its Iwilei headquarters.

On Monday, the department held a blessing for its reopening to showcase improvements such as new autopsy stations, improved lighting, upgraded ventilation and air conditioning, enhanced security, renovated offices and added refrigeration space.

“If you were looking for a morgue to be in a movie set or TV show, this was right out of central casting. It looked dreary, depressed and everything else. From my eyes, the transformation over the last several years is truly remarkable,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

The facility can now store 140 bodies rather than the previous 60. In addition, the facility features a private room for families to collect their belongings and tie up loose ends with their loved ones.

“The modernization of our autopsy room, labs, storage, offices, and more, is exactly what we expect from a 21st century city like Honolulu. We are so proud of the entire team at the Department of the Medical Examiner for their tremendous work, dedication and leadership, which allowed us to reach this milestone for the City,” Blangiardi added.

During a news conference, Honolulu Medical Examiner Dr. Masahiko “Mike” Kobayashi thanked both the City and the Blangiardi administration for pushing the renovations.

We are not considered first responders, but we are called the last responders. We work 24/7, always behind the scenes. We are a group of proud professionals and the job we have to do is very, very tough. This renovation lifted our spirits and boosted our morale so much. I cannot express my gratitude enough.

Dr. Masahiko “Mike” Kobayashi, Honolulu Medical Examiner