The most controversial issue to affect the Bartholomew County coroner’s office in recent years was the handling of the April 2013 shooting death of Cary Owsley.

Owsley died from a gunshot wound but the handling of the crime scene by the sheriff’s department and the county coroner led to deputies being disciplined, Owsley’s body being exhumed for autopsies and a federal lawsuit.

Two Republicans, Clayton Nolting and Ron Shadley, are vying for the coroner’s office after long-time coroner Larry Fisher chose not to seek re-election. We asked the candidates about what lessons they took away from the Owsley case.

Nolting says he is not familiar with the case.

04-28 clayton nolting question 5-1

Shadley said that he would review the department’s procedures if elected

04-28 ron shadley question 5-1

Democrat Paula Rothrock is also seeking the coroner’s office but she is unopposed in next week’s primary.