Death Investigation: A Guide for the Scene Investigator

Overview

• Publisher: U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice
• Publication Date: July 2024
• Director of NIJ: Nancy La Vigne, Ph.D.
• Purpose: To provide a comprehensive guide for scene investigators in conducting medicolegal death investigations.

Introduction

• Evolution of Death Investigation: Advances in communication, photography, documentation technology, and DNA technology have significantly changed the landscape of death investigations.
• Collaborative Approach: Emphasizes the need for independent yet collaborative investigations between death investigators and law enforcement.

Section A: Initial Notification and Determination of Response

1. Document Initial Death Report:
   • Collect information regarding the death from reporting agencies.
   • Maintain documentation on all deaths.
2. Retain or Release Medicolegal Jurisdiction:
   • Decide on jurisdiction based on additional data collected.
   • Document rationale for retaining or releasing jurisdiction.
3. Determine Scene Response:
   • Assess the need for scene response based on agency policies.
   • Ensure proper documentation if unable to respond.
4. Prepare and Collaborate:
   • Notify relevant agencies and prepare for a coordinated response.

Section B: Arriving at the Scene

1. Introduce and Identify Self and Role:
   • Establish contact with other officials and determine scene safety.
2. Exercise Scene Safety and Security:
   • Assess and establish safety measures and secure the scene.
3. Confirm or Pronounce Death:
   • Ensure death is confirmed by authorized personnel.
4. Participate in Scene Briefing:
   • Communicate responsibilities and gather preliminary information.
5. Conduct Scene Walkthrough:
   • Evaluate the scene and identify evidence.
6. Establish Chain of Custody:
   • Maintain integrity of evidence through documentation.
7. Follow Laws and Statutes:
   • Adhere to legal requirements for evidence collection.

Section C: Documenting and Evaluating the Scene

1. Photograph Scene:
   • Obtain thorough photographic documentation.
2. Develop Descriptive Documentation:
   • Create written records of the scene’s details.
3. Establish Probable Location of Injury or Illness:
   • Investigate all locations related to the death.
4. Collect, Inventory, and Safeguard Property and Evidence:
   • Ensure proper handling and documentation of evidence.
5. Interview Witness(es):
   • Gather information from witnesses and document it.

Section D: Documenting and Evaluating the Body

1. Photograph the Body:
   • Take detailed photographs to document the body's condition.
2. Conduct External Body Examination:
   • Record physical attributes and signs of trauma or treatment.
3. Preserve Evidence on the Body:
   • Ensure preservation and documentation of evidence.
4. Establish Decedent Identification:
   • Confirm identity using various methods.
5. Document and Assess Postmortem Changes:
   • Note changes like livor mortis and rigor mortis for time estimation.
6. Participate in Scene Debriefing:
   • Coordinate responsibilities and share findings post-investigation.
7. Determine Notification Procedures:
   • Notify next of kin appropriately.
8. Ensure Security of Remains:
   • Supervise body removal and maintain identification.

Section E: Recording Decedent Profile Information

1. Discovery History:
   • Document details of when and how the body was found.
2. Circumstances of Death:
   • Record events and medical interventions preceding death.
3. Medical History:
   • Gather comprehensive medical background.
4. Mental Health History:
   • Document mental health records and potential influences.
5. Social History:
   • Explore personal, occupational, and social aspects of the decedent's life.

Section F: Completing the Scene Investigation

1. Maintain Custody of the Body:
   • Ensure secure transportation and documentation.
2. Perform Exit Procedures:
   • Conduct final checks to confirm all evidence is collected and documented.
3. Assist the Family:
   • Provide information and resources to the family of the decedent.
4. Release Custody of the Body:
   • Finalize the death certificate and release the body to authorized parties.

Appendices

• Investigative Tools and Equipment: List of recommended equipment for investigators.
• Glossary of Terms: Definitions of key terms used in the guide.
• Technical Update Working Group Committee: Acknowledgment of contributors to the guide's update.

Key Points

• Importance of Documentation: Accurate and thorough documentation is critical throughout all stages of the investigation.
• Interagency Collaboration: Vital for effective scene management and information sharing.
• Safety and Legal Compliance: Ensures the integrity of the investigation and the safety of personnel involved.