Jayne Mansfield Autopsy Report -

The primary cause of death was listed as a crushed skull with partial separation of the cranium and brain .

All About Jayne Mansfield's 5 Children - People.com jayne mansfield autopsy report

The official autopsy report for Jayne Mansfield provides a clinical breakdown of the injuries that led to her death. Contrary to the widespread rumor that she was decapitated, the report clarifies the actual nature of her fatal trauma. The primary cause of death was listed as

The myth was fueled by gruesome crime scene photos showing what appeared to be a blonde head lying on the road. In reality, that object was Mansfield’s blonde wig, which had been thrown from the car during the impact. The myth was fueled by gruesome crime scene

Her children went on to lead successful lives, most notably Mariska Hargitay , who became a celebrated actress and advocate through her role on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit .

The fascination with the Jayne Mansfield autopsy report often stems from a desire to separate sensationalist tabloid lore from reality. The truth—while still tragic—underscores a pivotal moment in automotive safety history that continues to save lives on highways today.

The autopsy noted severe cranial trauma, described as an "avulsion of the scalp and portion of the cranium." While the injury was extreme and certainly horrific, her head remained attached to her body. The Birth of "Mansfield Bars"