Marathon County to build Regional Forensic Science Center

WAUSAU — Marathon County officially broke ground for its Regional Forensic Science Center today, July 23, making it the eighth facility in the state to offer forensic autopsies. It is also the first such facility in north central Wisconsin.

The new center, on Northcentral Technical College’s Wausau campus, will provide critical support to law enforcement and coroner/medical examiner offices across at least 28 counties in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, according to a Marathon County Government news release.

In addition to the core services required of coroner/medical examiner offices, which include forensic autopsies, consultation services and expert testimony, the facility will feature a dedicated tissue donation suite, a family consultation room, and a community grief garden. Once complete, this center will house the Marathon County Medical Examiner’s office, which is currently on West Street in Wausau.

In partnership with Northcentral Technical College and the Medical College of Wisconsin, the center will also serve as a cornerstone for education. It will play a vital role in addressing workforce needs in forensic science, public safety, health care and funeral services. It will provide students with real industry experience through an educational observation suite equipped with advanced autopsy viewing technology.

Most importantly, the center will improve services to families, including the ability to better honor religious and cultural practices, aiding in the families’ journey toward healing.

Construction is expected to be completed in July 2025, with Miron Construction Co., Inc. serving as the construction manager and Venture Architects serving as the architect.