Photographing the Body
Photographic documentation creates a permanent record of the decedent’s condition, appearance, and position at the scene. These images are invaluable for investigative, medical, and legal purposes. Before moving the body or disturbing evidence, the MDI captures images of the body and its surroundings exactly as first observed. Photographs include the decedent’s face, the front and back of the body, and additional views once any obstructing items are removed. Measurement scales are used when appropriate. After the body is removed, the surface beneath it is also documented. These photographs provide investigators with a reliable record of the body’s identity, position, and overall condition.
Documenting the External Condition of the Body
The external body examination delivers objective data about the decedent’s condition and its relationship to the scene. This documentation establishes identifying features, physical characteristics, and potential injuries while providing clues about cause and manner of death. Without removing clothing, the MDI documents and photographs the body’s position, the state of clothing and personal effects, and the presence of any foreign objects. Identifying features such as tattoos, scars, and surgical incisions are recorded along with evidence of injuries, trauma, or resuscitation attempts. When findings indicate the need for additional expertise, forensic specialists such as pathologists, odontologists, or forensic technologists are consulted. Although clothing remains in place to protect evidence, a complete head-to-toe evaluation, including palpation, is necessary to detect hidden injuries, fractures, or masses.
Preserving Evidence on the Body
The body itself serves as a primary source of evidence, and every effort is made to recognize, document, and preserve what it reveals. Evidence includes physical items, body fluids, and fragile material that may degrade quickly. The MDI photographs visible evidence such as blood, records its pattern and location, and secures hands and feet with paper evidence bags when appropriate. Clothing is collected in coordination with law enforcement and forensic pathologists, while items such as medications, ligatures, or drug paraphernalia are preserved. Biological samples are collected for later analysis, and all evidence is carefully handled to maintain the chain of custody. This process protects the admissibility of evidence in legal proceedings and ensures accuracy in determining the cause and manner of death.
Methods of Decedent Identification
Confirming or establishing the identity of the decedent remains central to every death investigation. Accurate identification allows families to be notified, records to remain precise, and legal matters to proceed. Identification methods include visual recognition and photographic comparison, scientific techniques such as fingerprinting, dental and radiographic records, or DNA testing, and circumstantial evidence such as personal effects or unique physical features. In many cases, more than one method is applied to confirm identity. Autopsy findings and the examination of medical devices also play an important role in verification, emphasizing the importance of a systematic approach.
Observing and Noting Postmortem Changes
Postmortem changes provide essential information about the time, location, and circumstances of death. The MDI documents livor mortis, noting its color, location, and blanchability; rigor mortis, recording its stage, intensity, and consistency with the body’s position; and algor mortis, including body temperature and the method of measurement. The degree of decomposition—whether putrefaction, adipocere formation, mummification, or skeletonization—is noted, as is any insect or animal activity. Scene temperature is also recorded. These findings help estimate the time of death, validate or challenge witness statements, and reveal whether the body was moved after death.
Conducting the Scene Debriefing
Once the immediate scene investigation concludes, the debriefing process ensures clear communication and collaboration between agencies. This meeting allows participants to review scene findings, assign post-scene responsibilities, and identify the need for additional specialists. Investigators exchange relevant information, address special requests, and establish ongoing channels for interagency cooperation. Confidentiality remains essential, and mental health follow-up for involved personnel may be discussed. Debriefings reinforce accountability and ensure a coordinated effort as the investigation continues beyond the scene itself.
Notification of Next of Kin
Timely and compassionate notification of next of kin is a vital part of the investigation. The MDI identifies and locates relatives or authorized individuals, documents contact information, and records the time and method of notification. If another agency carries out the notification, confirmation is obtained and recorded. Families are provided with contact details for the coroner or medical examiner’s office to facilitate follow-up. Whenever possible, notification takes place in person, and unsuccessful attempts are documented to demonstrate that all reasonable efforts were made.
Safeguarding the Integrity of Human Remains
Maintaining the security of the remains prevents contamination, misidentification, and tampering. The MDI supervises labeling, packaging, and removal of the body, ensuring that an identification tag with the decedent’s name, date of birth, case number, and other relevant details is attached. Clothing, personal property, and evidence are inventoried and secured in accordance with jurisdictional guidelines. If no autopsy is planned, biological samples are collected before release. The MDI oversees the placement of the body into a body bag, ensures it is properly sealed, and arranges for transportation. Careful supervision of this process safeguards both the remains and the evidence associated with them.
The Critical Role of Documentation in Determining Cause and Manner of Death
Death investigations demand precision, professionalism, and coordination. Documenting and evaluating the body at the scene provides crucial insight into the cause and manner of death while ensuring that families receive accurate information, evidence is preserved for legal proceedings, and investigative efforts remain thorough and reliable. Each step—from photographing the body and conducting external examinations to preserving evidence and securing the remains—serves as a vital part of a methodical and respectful process that balances investigative rigor with compassion for those affected.
Death Investigations Series
If you liked the death investigations series, you can click the links below for the two prior posts.
1. Death Investigations: Understanding the Process Before Biohazard Cleanup
2. Death Investigations: Arriving at the Death Scene
3. Death Investigations: The Role of Death Scene Documentation
