Citation

Mundorff AZ, Vidoli G, Melinek J. J. Forensic Sci. 2006; 51(5): 1002-1004.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, American Society for Testing and Materials, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1556-4029.2006.00233.x

PMID

17018076

Abstract

This case study demonstrates the importance of involving an anthropologist in forensic situations with decomposed remains. Anthropological consultation was used in conjunction with the comparison of antemortem and postmortem radiographs to establish positive identification of unknown, decomposed remains. The remains had no traditional identifying features such as fingerprints or dental. Through anthropological analysis, it was determined the decedent was male, between 20 and 23 years at time of death and c. 5'2'' tall. This information allowed for a presumptive identification and a request for antemortem radiographs. The missing person was identified comparing the spinous processes of the cervical and thoracic vertebrae between ante- and postmortem radiographs.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Cervical Vertebrae; Drowning; Forensic Anthropology; Humans; Male; Radiography; Suicide; Thoracic Vertebrae