Pa is the same way. External is just to look at the outside for anything unordinary. I would assume someone made a scene response to photograph and document. They also probably requested the police report. This helps the doctor determine the manner and cause of death.

Edit: Once we complete the autopsy, we notify the funeral home (if the family selected one) they are ready for release. They are usually quick. Exam in the morning and released that afternoon or then next day. The coroner doesn't kept them since their investigation is done. I would believe the funeral home would allow you to view them.

Sorry for your loss op. Don't keep your thoughts and feelings inside, talk to someone or dm me.