2019 Primary election: Minnich announces bid for Lehigh County Coroner

With the announcement of Lehigh County Coroner Scott M. Grim retiring, Lehigh County First Deputy Coroner/Operations Manager Eric D. Minnich is officially announcing his candidacy for Lehigh County Coroner.

Minnich, 41, a Democrat, began his employment with the Lehigh coroner’s office as a part-time deputy coroner in 2006. By 2007, Minnich began as a full-time deputy coroner, and in 2012 began his leadership role as the first deputy coroner/operations manager; promoted by Grim.

As first deputy coroner, Minnich oversees the daily operations of the office, including scheduling, staffing, training, monthly and yearly statistical reporting, policy development and review, disaster planning, interagency relations, vehicle maintenance and other duties that assist the office in completing its mission. Minnich has worked with several local school districts and assisted them with their Students Against Destructive Decisions mock accident. This position has allowed Minnich to work with Grim and the Coroner’s Office staff at major incidents, including the recent car explosion in Allentown and on major projects including the first reaccreditation at the new Forensics Center by the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners.

Minnich previously worked as an EMT and paramedic.

“My medical training and over 24 years of emergency medical experience has been a tremendous asset to my investigations and our office. Additionally, I’m serving my 28th year as a volunteer and assistant chief with the Neffs Volunteer Fire Company,” Minnich said.

“In seeking the position of Lehigh County coroner, it is my hope to lead the office with the same respect, professionalism and compassion that I’ve come to know under the leadership of Coroner Scott M. Grim.”

Minnich humbly asks the voters and all people of Lehigh County, for the opportunity to serve them with his leadership and a strategy of continuing to operate the Lehigh County Coroner’s Office to the highest recognized standard.

Minnich plans to run an aggressive campaign, host and attend numerous meet and greets, and hopes to give a better understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a coroner.

Minnich lives in Schnecksville with his wife Pamela, a registered nurse and is the father of three girls.