Shreveport, La. – The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office will see a leadership change after Dr. Todd Thoma, who has served as the parish’s chief medical examiner since 2008, announced his intention to retire in December 2026. The decision ends a 19‑year tenure during which the office investigated countless sudden, unexpected and suspicious deaths across the parish.
Retirement timeline and legal requirements
Dr. Thoma’s current term does not expire until 2028. Because he will leave office more than a year before the term concludes, Louisiana law mandates a special election to fill the vacancy. The election will give voters a chance to select a new coroner who will serve the remainder of the term.
Interim leadership
Chief Deputy Dr. Thomas Arnold, a longtime member of the coroner’s staff, will assume the duties of coroner immediately following Dr. Thoma’s departure. Dr. Arnold will oversee ongoing investigations, maintain the office’s forensic capabilities, and ensure a smooth transition until the elected successor takes office.
Role of the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office
The coroner’s office is responsible for determining the cause and manner of deaths that are sudden, unexpected, or otherwise suspicious. Under Louisiana law, the office also provides vital records, works closely with law‑enforcement agencies, and offers expert testimony in court proceedings. The office’s work supports public safety and provides closure for families affected by tragic loss.
Community impact
Local officials and community leaders have praised Dr. Thoma’s dedication to public service. “Dr. Thoma’s commitment to thorough, compassionate investigations has been a cornerstone of public safety in Caddo Parish,” said a parish commissioner. Residents can expect continuity of service during the interim period, as Dr. Arnold has been involved in the office’s daily operations for many years.
What comes next
The special election will be scheduled in accordance with state statutes, and information about candidate filing dates and voting procedures will be disseminated by the Caddo Parish Clerk’s Office. Voters are encouraged to stay informed about the election timeline and to participate in selecting the next coroner, a role that directly affects the community’s health and safety.
Looking ahead
While Dr. Thoma prepares for retirement, the coroner’s office remains focused on its core mission: providing accurate, timely forensic analysis and supporting the families and law‑enforcement partners who rely on its expertise. The transition offers an opportunity for fresh leadership while preserving the high standards set over nearly two decades.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
