In the world of public information and crisis communications, timing matters. But sometimes, decency matters more.

Whether it’s a homicide, fatal crash, overdose, or other tragic circumstance, the death of a community member triggers a familiar process: agencies prepare a news release, social media post, or media statement. And often, just hours (in some cases minutes) after next of kin are notified, the deceased’s name is released publicly.

This is what’s considered “standard.” But it’s time to ask: Is it humane?

We live in an era where many public agencies pride themselves on being trauma-informed, victim-centered, and compassionate. Yet when it comes to death notifications, too many default to a checklist mentality: once next of kin is notified, the information is cleared for public release. Full stop.

But grief doesn’t move that quickly. And families deserve better.

“Next of Kin” Isn’t the End of the Story

Public information officers and law enforcement agencies often define their duty as notifying a single legal point of contact—often a spouse, parent, or adult child. Once that box is checked, they feel justified in releasing the individual’s name to the public.

But think about it: if your cousin, sibling, or close friend died in a crash today, would you want to find out through a police department Facebook post? Or in a news article being shared across social media?

Because under the current model, that happens every day.

Next of kin notification should be the start, not the finish, of a more compassionate process.

Best Practice: Release in Concert with the Family

A more humane, trauma-informed approach is simple:

• Notify next of kin promptly—but then ask them, “How much time do you need?”
• Allow a reasonable window—typically 24 to 48 hours—for the family to inform extended relatives, close friends, and others personally.
• Coordinate the timing of the public release with the family when possible, unless there’s an urgent public safety reason not to.

Unless there is an immediate and compelling public interest (such as an ongoing manhunt, threat to community safety, or high-profile public official), the public does not need the name right away. What they need—and what builds public trust—is the assurance that you’re treating people with dignity.

Being First Shouldn’t Mean Being Cold

The drive to be transparent, timely, and accountable is essential. But being fast shouldn’t come at the expense of being thoughtful. Your organization’s social media feed should never be the reason someone learns of a loved one’s death.

There’s also no shame in saying something like:

“We are working with the family and will release the individual’s name once they’ve had time to notify other relatives. We appreciate the public’s understanding as we prioritize compassion during this difficult time.”

That is transparency. That is professionalism. And that is what trauma-informed communication looks like in practice.

Recommendation for Agencies & PIOs

If your current policy is to release names as soon as next of kin is notified, consider a revision. Create internal guidance that:

• Builds in a grace period (24–48 hours) for families to notify others.
• Empowers PIOs to coordinate with investigators and leadership before posting.
• Uses flexible, templated language that balances public right-to-know with empathy.
• Trains staff on trauma-informed communications, especially in death notifications and victim support.

At the End of the Day: It’s About Respect

Every name we release in death news releases represents a life lost and a family changed forever. The least we can do is ensure those left behind are given space to process, inform, and grieve before the world learns their loved one’s name.

This isn’t about hiding information. It’s about human dignity.

So before you hit “publish,” ask yourself: Would I want to learn about my sibling’s death this way?

Let’s slow down just enough to do the right thing.

---

📬 Need help writing trauma-informed messaging for your agency? PDR Strategies specializes in respectful, real-world communication strategies for public agencies and emergency response organizations. Contact us to learn more.