A Guide to Death Scene Investigation
Follow Agency Policies!
Actions taken following these guides should be performed in accordance with department policies and procedures and federal and state laws.
Jurisdictional, logistical or legal conditions may preclude the use of particular procedures contained herein.
Local death investigators must do their best to find answers for families who have lost loved ones. Death investigation requires strict adherence to guidelines. Investigators must search for clues that identify a death as natural, suicide or homicide. In the case of homicide, investigators must carefully collect evidence to help identify suspects and convict murderers.
Proper scene investigation includes:
- Arriving at the scene.
- Evaluating the scene.
- Documenting and evaluating the body.
- Establishing decedent profile information.
- Completing the investigation.
Call in Help!
For potentially dangerous situations, such as biological weapons or radiological or chemical threats, contact the appropriate agencies.