Which of the following best describes the role of a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system by performing autopsies to determine the cause of death. This involves examining the body and any physical evidence associated with it, allowing the pathologist to provide insights into how and why an individual died. This expertise is essential in cases of sudden, unexplained, or suspicious deaths, where establishing a clear cause is paramount for investigations.

While examining skeletal remains may pertain to forensic anthropology, and the collection of evidence and assessment of DNA samples relate to other forensic specialties, the specific and primary focus of a forensic pathologist is to perform detailed autopsies. This process includes not only determining the manner of death (homicide, suicide, accidental, natural, or undetermined) but also provides valuable information that may link a suspect to a crime or clear an innocent individual. Thus, the correct choice reflects the specialized responsibilities of a forensic pathologist in the context of forensic science.