Dr. Cyril Wecht, a renowned pathologist and attorney known for his controversial stance on multiple high-profile cases, including the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, has died at the age of 93. His death was announced by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts on May 13, 2024.
Dr. Wecht gained fame after challenging the Warren Commission's report which concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in assassinating President Kennedy in 1963. He argued that it was impossible for a single bullet to inflict the reported wounds, a theory that reached a wide audience through his contributions to Oliver Stone's film "JFK."
Besides his work on the Kennedy case, Dr. Wecht was involved in numerous other notable cases. His opinions were sought in the deaths of Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and JonBenet Ramsey, among others. He frequently appeared on television to discuss these cases, contributing to his status as a celebrity pathologist.
His career also saw legal challenges, particularly concerning his role as the Allegheny County Medical Examiner, where he faced allegations of using his office for personal gain. All charges against him were eventually dropped after a lengthy legal battle that ended in 2009.
Dr. Wecht authored several books, including "Cause of Death", providing insights into his forensic investigations. He held medical and law degrees from the University of Pittsburgh, where he also served as an instructor. His career was marked by his outspoken nature and the significant public attention his forensic conclusions garnered.