MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — Berkeley County Coroner Darnell Hartwell has been named the 2026 South Carolina Coroner of the Year, earning one of the profession’s highest honors for his leadership, public service and efforts to advance medicolegal death investigations across the state.
The award, presented by the South Carolina Coroners Association, recognizes Hartwell’s work in strengthening the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office while expanding training, community outreach and prevention initiatives aimed at improving public health and safety.
📰SUBSCRIBE:Â Get the latest Berkeley County, SC news delivered to your inbox.
The recognition comes less than three years after Hartwell was elected coroner in 2023, though his service to Berkeley County stretches back much further.
Long before taking office, Hartwell served the community through the Berkeley County Rescue Squad, volunteered with the coroner’s office, and later worked as both a deputy coroner and chief deputy coroner.
National accreditation achieved under Hartwell’s leadership
One of the most notable accomplishments during Hartwell’s tenure was guiding the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office to national accreditation through the International Association of Coroners & Medical Examiners.
Officials said the accreditation strengthened operational standards while enhancing public confidence in the office’s work.
Hartwell has also focused heavily on prevention efforts, particularly in addressing overdose deaths across Berkeley County.
Under his leadership, the county established an Overdose Fatality Review Team that has drawn recognition from both the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office and the Governor’s Office. The initiative brings together healthcare providers, law enforcement agencies, public health officials and community partners to analyze overdose deaths and identify ways to prevent future fatalities.
Expanding training and public outreach
Beyond overdose prevention, Hartwell has helped organize and host numerous training opportunities for professionals across the state.
Those efforts have included Overdose Fatality Review training programs designed to help other jurisdictions develop their own teams, Child Fatality Investigation training sessions and community forums addressing emerging issues such as kratom use.
One such event brought together state lawmakers, healthcare providers and community leaders to discuss concerns surrounding kratom and educate residents about potential risks.
Members of the coroner’s office also serve on multiple prevention-focused boards and support veteran suicide prevention efforts.
Additionally, the office employs two certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians and has participated in hundreds of community events over the past four years focused on education, awareness and injury prevention.
A voice for coroners across the Lowcountry
Hartwell’s influence extends beyond Berkeley County.
He currently serves as the coroner representative for the Lowcountry Healthcare Coalition, helping ensure coroners are included in broader discussions involving public health planning and emergency preparedness throughout the region.
While state officials cited Hartwell’s accomplishments and initiatives, colleagues say his leadership style may be what sets him apart most.
According to the nomination, Hartwell remains actively involved in daily operations, regularly responding to scenes, supporting first responders and helping families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments.
He has also emphasized professional development within his office, ensuring staff members receive training, resources and support while fostering a culture centered on teamwork, professionalism and public service.
The recognition highlights a local official whose work often occurs behind the scenes but whose impact touches families, first responders and public health efforts throughout the community.
