Crime Classification Manual

Homicide 183
from it, and it is disorganized, with no effort to conceal the victim. A firearm,
the weapon of choice for this type of offender, is bought to the crime. This
crime often becomes a massacre because it is the offender’s goal to kill as
many people as possible. This is reflected by the use of weapons that offer
optimal lethality, multiple weapons, and an abundance of ammunition.
Staging. Staging is not present.
Common Forensic Findings. Because nothing is removed from the
scene, an abundance of evidence is usually available, including shell casings,
prints, and discarded weapons. High-powered, high-caliber, or highcapacity
firearm use will be evident and enables the offender to accomplish
his goal of mass killing. Wounds will be concentrated on vital areas: head,
neck, and chest.
Investigative Considerations
This crime is almost exclusively committed during daylight in public places
because the offender wants the highest death toll possible. Witnesses are
often available to identify the offender because he is unconcerned with being
identified. The offender has no escape plan and possibly intends to commit
suicide or be shot by police. Through a broad neighborhood investigation,
preoffense characteristics become evident: the offender usually has a disheveled
appearance, is withdrawn, demonstrates an isolated affect, and possibly
exhibits erratic behavior.
Search Warrant Suggestions
The home of the suspect should be searched for weapons, receipts, and
records.
CASE STUDY: 126: NONSPECIFIC MOTIVE MURDER
Background
“Born on April 18, 1947, and raised in Santa Cruz, California, Herbert
Mullin had a relatively normal childhood. His father, a World War II veteran,
was stern but not overtly abusive. He frequently discussed his heroic
war activities and showed his son how to use a gun at an early age. Mullin
had numerous friends at school and was voted ‘most likely to succeed’ by
his classmates.” In 1965, “shortly after graduating from high school, one of
Mullin’s best friends, Dean, was killed in a car accident, and Mullin was