There was a substantial increase in the number of cases processed by the Carbon County coroner’s office in 2020.

Meanwhile, there was a small rise in the number of drug-related deaths in the county last year, according to the annual report filed by Coroner Robert W. Miller Jr.

In a report to the Carbon County Commissioners, Miller said his office processed 634 cases in 2020, up from 468 in 2019.

There were 30 drug-related deaths in Carbon County in 2020, up from 26 in 2019, Miller said in the report.

“The year 2020 was a very challenging year, with drug-related deaths continuing to increase,” Miller said in his report. “The COVID-19 pandemic put a lot of pressure on the entire group, as well as the chief deputy coroner. At times, our resources, as a Class 6 County, are pressed to the limit.”

Miller said there were 68 COVID-19 deaths in the county, 67 of which were in a nursing home. That doesn’t include any who died at hospitals in other counties.

He said 454 of the dispositions of the deceased were authorized to be done by cremation purposes.

Miller commented, “I would like to extend my appreciation and sincere thanks to all local police departments, the Pennsylvania State police, fire departments and the emergency medical services,” Miller said. “Their assistance at the scene is instrumental in conducting a thorough investigation. I wish to express a note of appreciation to the Carbon County District Attorney’s Office for their continued cooperation and support.”

Miller said there were 47 deaths last year that were classified as “accidental,” including the drug deaths.

His report also listed other notable statistics, such as: six homicides, 21 suicides, nine deaths due to trauma, one death due to drowning, six homicides, and 208 hospice deaths the coroner’s office was notified of.

Miller added, “We are also fortunate to have a dedicated and experienced group of eight deputy coroners that provide a professional and thorough service to Carbon County. I wish to thank the commissioners for their continued cooperation in allowing the coroner’s office to function in an independent, professional and ethical manner.”

So far this year, Miller said there have been 47 COVID-19 deaths, but no homicides.

“We’re about the same as last year,” he said. “We’re up to 217 deaths so far this year.”