Visible Proofs: Forensic Views of the Body - Insect Testimony

Overview

• Exhibition Title: Visible Proofs: Forensic Views of the Body
• Gallery Section: Cases
• Specific Focus: Insect Testimony
• Hosted By: National Library of Medicine

Case Study: Sylvia Hunt Murder

• Date of Discovery: September 21, 1986
• Location: Near I-95 in Greenwich, Connecticut
• Victim: Sylvia Hunt, 26-year-old woman
• Condition of Body: Found decomposing in a carpet

Forensic Entomology Evidence

• Insects Involved: Blow fly larvae (Phormia regina)
• Evidence Collected:
  • Blow fly larvae feeding on the body
  • Pale and dark brown blow fly puparia
  • Approximately 4,000 larvae collected for analysis
• Analysis Conducted By: Forensic Entomologist William Krinsky

Findings and Outcome

• Autopsy Results: Victim had been stabbed 15 times
• Insect Evidence Analysis:
  • Blow flies deposited eggs on the corpse seven days prior to discovery
  • Matched carpet pattern linked to suspect's room
• Legal Impact: Used as evidence to convict the suspect of first-degree murder

Visual and Media Resources

• Images of Entomological Evidence: Various photographs depicting the forensic process
• Documents: Letters and climatological data pertaining to the case

Additional Resources and Links

• Related Exhibitions: Additional exhibitions and educational resources available at the National Library of Medicine
• Connect with NLM: Social media links and contact information for further engagement

Contact Information

• Location: 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894
• Web Policies and Accessibility: Available on the NLM website

Note

• This case highlights the role of forensic entomology in criminal investigations, showcasing how insect evidence can be crucial in solving crimes.