Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator

Overview

• Published by: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
• Director: Nancy La Vigne, Ph.D.
• Publication Date: July 2024
• Purpose: Provides guidelines for medicolegal death investigators (MDIs) for scene investigations to improve the administration of justice and public safety.

Acknowledgments

• The guide is developed with contributions from the Medicolegal Death Investigation Technical Working Group and funded by the CDC.
• Key contributors include Dr. Margaret Warner, Dr. John Laub, and Dr. David Muhlhausen.

Introduction to 2024 Technical Update

• Advancements since 2011: Improved communication, photography, documentation technologies, and DNA technology.
• Collaborative Model: Emphasizes the necessity for independent, yet collaborative investigation efforts between MDIs and law enforcement.
• Review Process: Involves multidisciplinary groups and multiple review sessions.

Section A: Initial Notification and Determination of Response

• Initial Notification: Death notification from community partners like law enforcement or healthcare providers.
• Document Initial Death Report: Essential information includes reporting agency, decedent's demographics, and suspected cause of death.
• Retain or Release Jurisdiction: Decisions on jurisdiction based on laws, involving suspected homicide, suicide, or accidents.
• Determine Scene Response: Decide on scene response based on jurisdiction and policy.
• Prepare and Collaborate: Ensures safety and shares information with appropriate agencies.

Section B: Arriving at the Scene

• Introduce and Identify Self and Role: Establish contact with key personnel and introduce the MDI's role.
• Exercise Scene Safety and Security: Assess and ensure scene security and safety.
• Confirm or Pronounce Death: Ensure authorized personnel confirm death before proceeding.
• Participate in Scene Briefing: Understand responsibilities and gather preliminary information.
• Conduct Scene Walkthrough: Initial assessment to identify evidence and plan documentation.
• Establish Chain of Custody: Document and secure evidence, ensuring integrity.
• Follow Laws and Statutes: Coordinate with legal authorities on evidence collection.

Section C: Documenting and Evaluating the Scene

• Photograph Scene: Create a permanent visual record from multiple angles and perspectives.
• Develop Descriptive Documentation: Written records to complement photographic evidence.
• Establish Probable Location of Injury or Illness: Determine all relevant locations related to the death.
• Collect, Inventory, and Safeguard Property and Evidence: Secure all relevant property and evidence.
• Interview Witnesses: Document statements from witnesses and individuals at the scene.

Section D: Documenting and Evaluating the Body

• Photograph the Body: Ensure thorough photographic documentation.
• Conduct External Body Examination: Evaluate the body’s physical condition and any injuries.
• Preserve Evidence on Body: Secure and document all evidence found on the body.
• Establish Decedent Identification: Use visual, scientific, and circumstantial methods to confirm identity.
• Document and Assess Postmortem Changes: Evaluate changes to estimate time and circumstances of death.
• Participate in Scene Debriefing: Coordinate responsibilities and share information with agencies.
• Determine Notification Procedures: Identify and notify next of kin or authorized individuals.
• Ensure Security of Remains: Manage the decedent’s remains securely and respectfully.

Section E: Recording Decedent Profile Information

• Discovery History: Document how, when, and where the decedent was found.
• Circumstances of Death: Consider events leading up to death for cause determination.
• Medical History: Gather comprehensive medical and surgical history.
• Mental Health History: Assess mental health status and history for investigation insights.
• Social History: Investigate the decedent’s personal background and relationships.

Section F: Completing the Scene Investigation

• Maintain Custody of the Body: Ensure proper transport and examination.
• Perform Exit Procedures: Finalize scene investigation and ensure all actions are documented.
• Assist the Family: Provide information and support to the decedent’s family.
• Release Custody of the Body: Complete necessary procedures for body release.

Appendices

• Appendix A: List of investigative tools and equipment.
• Appendix B: Glossary of technical terms used.
• Appendix C: List of members in the Technical Update Working Group Committee.

Key Takeaways:

• Importance of collaboration between different agencies in death investigations.
• The need for MDIs to be well-versed in legal, procedural, and scientific aspects of death investigations.
• The guide emphasizes both careful documentation and respect for the deceased and affected individuals.

This guide serves as a comprehensive resource for MDIs to perform their duties effectively, respecting legal and ethical standards while ensuring thorough investigations.