Mass Fatality Incidents: A Guide for Forensic Identification

JUNE 05Mass Fatality Incidents: A Guide forHuman Forensic IdentificationTechnical Working Group for Mass Fatality Forensic IdentificationNCJ 199758

Sarah V. HartDirectorFindings and conclusions of the research reported here are those of the authors and do notreflect the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.The National Institute of Justice is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which alsoincludes the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the Office of JuvenileJustice and Delinquency Prevention, and the Office for Victims of Crime.

Message From the DirectorEvery action taken by public safety personnelat a death scene can have a profoundimpact on victim identification and anysubsequent criminal investigation. Coordinatingthe work of the many agencies thatmust respond to mass fatality incidentspresents a particularly complex set ofdemands. Even large States and municipalitiescan find themselves overburdenedwith many operational requirements inresponding to a major transportation accidentor terrorist incident. Whether for thepurpose of preserving evidence for a criminalinvestigation or effectively managing theidentification of victims, a well-designedplan could be an invaluable response tool.Recent events and the emergent threat ofcontinued terrorist activity emphasize theneed for public-sector agencies to plan fora coordinated response to a mass fatalityevent. Agencies small and large, urban andrural, need to be prepared for an eventthat will exceed their operational capacity.In an effort to support excellence acrosslocal and State public safety agencies, theNational Institute of Justice, the research,development, and evaluation arm of theU.S. Department of Justice, initiated anational effort through the National Centerfor Forensic Science to develop a consensusdocument that would offer guidancefor the development of coordinated plansfor responding to an incident involvingmass fatalities. I commend the work ofthe 49 experienced public officials andother professionals from across the UnitedStates and Canada who came togetherand formed the Technical Working Groupthat developed this guide. I applaud theircommitment and determination in creatingthis consensus document.This guide is designed to assist all jurisdictionsin creating new mass fatality plansor reviewing existing plans. I encourageevery jurisdiction to give careful considerationto the recommendations in the guide.Regardless of the number of people killed,victims and their loved ones deserve ourbest efforts to provide accurate identificationof the victims and effective investigationof the crime. I believe this guide willhelp us attain that goal.Sarah V. HartDirector, National Institute of Justiceiii

PrefaceMost government agencies concernedwith public safety have disaster plans.Although some are linked to other agencies’plans, others are not. In the event ofmass fatalities, the local medical examineror coroner should already have in place aplan to identify the victims properly. Thepurpose of this guide is to help the medicalexaminer or coroner prepare that portionof a disaster plan concerned withvictim identification.The statutory duty of the medical examineror coroner does not change as the numberof victims increases. Whether thereare one, a hundred, or thousands of victims,each should be accorded the sameconsideration under the laws governingthe investigation of and response to suddenor violent death.Correct victim identification is essential tosatisfy humanitarian considerations, meetcivil and criminal investigative needs, andidentify victim perpetrators. Equally importantwith identification procedures is theneed to document body location andwound patterns that may be essential inreconstructing the event and determiningits cause. Today, forensic science (e.g.,DNA, fingerprints, forensic anthropology,odontology, radiology) plays a major role invictim identification. If local and State governmentslack the resources to cope witha large number of fatalities, they shouldconsider outside help in the forensic investigationsthat may lead to the identificationof these victims. The specialists broughtin to assist in the investigation should haveexperience, education, and training in theforensic process and should adhere to thehighest scientific and professional standards.It is essential to integrate the medicalexaminer/coroner functions into the establishedemergency response system. Thissystem is concerned with limiting thescope of the disaster and providing criticalfunctions such as fire suppression, rescueof the injured, establishment of an incidentcommand structure, and security.The first section of this guide, “Section 1:Initial Response Considerations,” summarizesthe initial process. The second section,“Section 2: Arriving at the Scene,”discusses the integration of the medicalexaminer/coroner into the process. Fromthe third section, “Section 3: Processingthe Scene,” onward, the focus is on theidentification of the deceased.This guide does not specifically addressthe search and rescue efforts for the livingthat take precedence over the recoveryof the remains, collection of evidence,documentation of the scene, and otheroperational procedures. However, firstresponders and others can use this guideto understand the death investigation process.This guide can assist them in developingoperational tactics for routine aswell as mass fatality incidents.The procedures presented in this guidecan help medical examiners and coronersfulfill their legal duties even when thenumber of victims exceeds their agency’sdaily operating capacity.v

Technical Working Group for Mass FatalityForensic IdentificationIn April 2000, the National Institute ofJustice (NIJ), the National Center forForensic Science (NCFS), and the Universityof Central Florida identified the needfor a guide to prepare local and State medicalexaminers and coroners for a massfatality incident. NIJ established theTechnical Working Group for Mass FatalityForensic Identification (TWGMFFI) to identify,define, and establish the basic criteriato assist medical examiners’ and coroners’offices and local and State agencies inmanaging mass fatality incidents.The planning panel met in January andFebruary 2001 at NCFS in Orlando, Florida,to define the scope, intent, and objectivesof the guide and to identify TWG membersand member organizations. NCFS facilitatedthe first meeting of the full TWGMFFIin June 2001 in Orlando, Florida. Duringthe first day, the group separated intosubcommittees to draft the followingsections: “Section 1: Initial ResponseConsiderations”; “Section 2: Arriving atthe Scene”; “Section 3: Processing theScene”; “Section 5: Disposition of HumanRemains, Personal Effects, and Records”;and “Section 6: Other Issues.” On thesecond day, the group separated into subcommitteesaccording to their forensicspecialties to draft “Section 4: Identificationof Human Remains.”The planning panel was scheduled to meetin late September 2001 to review the draftdocument. The events of September 11,2001, however, required NCFS to reschedulethe meeting. The planning panel met inNovember 2001 in Orlando to review andedit the draft document. NCFS facilitatedconference calls with each subcommitteeduring January through March 2002 toreview and revise each section. NCFShosted another planning panel meeting inOrlando in March 2002 to review and furtherrevise the document. In May 2002,NCFS posted the draft document on itsWeb site and solicited comments from335 agencies, departments, and organizationsin the forensic science and law enforcementcommunities for content andeditorial review. The full TWG met for thefinal time in July 2002 in Orlando to reviewcomments, revise the document, andmake final changes.Planning PanelDouglas M. ArendtCaptain, U.S. Navy (Retired)Chief Forensic Odontologist and Staff Pathologist (Retired)Armed Forces Institute of PathologyWashington, D.C.Jack Ballantyne, Ph.D.Associate Director, Biological EvidenceNational Center for Forensic ScienceUniversity of Central FloridaOrlando, FloridaJamie Bush, CLPEForensic ScientistLatent Print SectionMississippi Crime LaboratoryMeridian, Mississippi Frank A. Ciaccio, M.P.A.Manager, Forensic ScienceNational Transportation Safety Board Washington, D.C.Joseph H. Davis, M.D.Director (Retired)Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’sDepartmentMiami, Floridavii

Joseph A. DiZinno, D.D.S.Deputy Assistant DirectorLaboratory DivisionFederal Bureau of InvestigationWashington, D.C.Anthony B. Falsetti, Ph.D.DirectorC.A. Pound Human Identification LabUniversity of FloridaGainesville, FloridaMitchell M. Holland, Ph.D.Vice President and Laboratory DirectorThe Bode Technology Group, Inc.Springfield, VirginiaThomas Holland, Ph.D.Scientific DirectorU.S. Army Central IdentificationLaboratory, Hawaii [now Joint POW/MIAAccounting Command]Hickam AFB, HawaiiNorman KassoffDirector of Operations (Retired)Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’sDepartmentMiami, FloridaWilliam Morlang, D.D.S.Colonel, U.S. Air Force (Retired) Associate ProfessorDepartment of Oral and Maxillofacial PathologyTufts UniversityBoston, MassachusettsTom Shepardson (Deceased)DMORT National CommanderOffice of Emergency PreparednessNational Disaster Medical SystemU.S. Department of Health and HumanServices [now U.S. Department ofHomeland Security]Syracuse, New YorkPaul Sledzik, M.S.DMORT III CommanderNational Museum of Health and MedicineArmed Forces Institute of PathologyWashington, D.C.Carrie M. Whitcomb, M.S.F.S.DirectorNational Center for Forensic ScienceUniversity of Central FloridaOrlando, FloridaTWGMFFI MembersJoseph A. Bifano, M.D.Major, U.S. Air ForceChief, Diagnostic ImagingDover AFB, DelawareC. Michael Bowers, D.D.S., J.D.Deputy Medical ExaminerVentura County Medical Examiner’s OfficeVentura, CaliforniaJoseph BrownSupervisory Fingerprint SpecialistFederal Bureau of InvestigationWashington, D.C.Brian Chrz, D.D.S.ConsultantOffice of the Chief Medical ExaminerState of OklahomaPerry, OklahomaDavid CoffmanCrime Laboratory Analyst SupervisorFlorida Department of Law EnforcementTallahassee, FloridaBarry W. Duceman, Ph.D.Director of Biological ScienceForensic Investigation CenterNew York State PoliceAlbany, New YorkScott Firestone, D.D.S.Forensic OdontologistSuffolk County Medical Examiner’s OfficeHauppauge, New YorkJohn Fitzpatrick, M.D.Department of Radiologyviii

Cook County HospitalChicago, IllinoisRon Fourney, Ph.D.Research ScientistForensic Laboratory ServicesNational Police ServicesRoyal Canadian Mounted PoliceOttawa, OntarioCanadaDiane France, Ph.D.DirectorHuman Identification LaboratoryColorado State UniversityFort Collins, ColoradoLaura C. Fulginiti, Ph.D.Forensic AnthropologistMaricopa County Medical Examiner’sOfficePhoenix, ArizonaGrant D. Graham, M.F.S.Senior Crime Scene AnalystMississippi Crime LaboratoryBiloxi, MississippiDanny W. GreathouseLockheed MartinU.S. Department of JusticeWashington, D.C.Jack HackettLieutenantSenior Crime Scene AnalystNew York City Police DepartmentNew York, New YorkRandy Hanzlick, M.D.Chief Medical ExaminerFulton County Medical Examiner’s CenterAssociate Professor of Forensic PathologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlanta, GeorgiaRhea Haugseth, D.D.S.Marietta, GeorgiaDale HeidemanDeputy DirectorNational Center for Forensic ScienceUniversity of Central FloridaOrlando, FloridaRoy HeimDetectiveTulsa Police DepartmentTulsa, OklahomaEdwin F. Huffine, Ph.D.Director of Forensic Sciences ProgramInternational Commission on Missing PersonsSarajevo, Bosnia-HerzegovinaLouis HuppSupervisory Fingerprint SpecialistFederal Bureau of InvestigationWashington, D.C.Robert A. JensenVice President of Operations, Planning,and TrainingKenyon International EmergencyServices, Inc.Houston, TexasFred B. Jordan, M.D.Chief Medical ExaminerState of OklahomaOklahoma City, OklahomaMartin S. LaBruscianoChief (Retired)Casselberry Police DepartmentLaw Enforcement ConsultantBuffalo, WyomingJoel E. Lichtenstein, M.D.Professor and Director, Gastrointestinal RadiologyDepartment of RadiologyUniversity of Washington School ofMedicineSeattle, WashingtonMark MalcolmCoronerPulaski County Coroner’s OfficeLittle Rock, Arkansasix

Gregory O’Reilly, M.A., J.D.Supervisor, Forensic Science UnitOffice of the Cook County Public DefenderChicago, IllinoisDick RogersMajorMiami-Dade Police DepartmentMiami, FloridaRobert Sibert, M.A., M.S.F.S.Chief, Forensic Analysis SectionFederal Bureau of InvestigationWashington, D.C.Brion Smith, D.D.S.Chief Deputy Medical ExaminerDepartment of Defense DNA RegistryArmed Forces Institute of PathologyRockville, MarylandCalvin W. SmithForensic Specialist (Retired)Royal Canadian Mounted PoliceSydney River, Nova ScotiaCanadaRon W. Tarr, Ph.D.Director, Advanced Learning TechnologyInstitute for Simulation and TrainingUniversity of Central FloridaOrlando, FloridaJames G. TauberDirectorVolusia County Fire ServicesDeland, FloridaSteve TillmannDeputyCrime Scene InvestigatorLos Angeles County Sheriff’s DepartmentLos Angeles, CaliforniaCharles V. Wetli, M.D.Chief Medical ExaminerSuffolk County Medical Examiner’s OfficeHauppauge, New YorkC. Colon Willoughby, Jr.Wake County District Attorney10th Prosecutorial DistrictState of North CarolinaRaleigh, North Carolinax

AcknowledgmentsThe National Institute of Justice (NIJ)thanks the members of the TechnicalWorking Group for Mass Fatality ForensicIdentification for their dedication to thisproject. NIJ also offers its gratitude to theagencies and organizations represented bythe working group members.In addition, NIJ thanks Carrie M.Whitcomb, Director; Jack Ballantyne,Associate Director, Biological Evidence;and John Bardakjy, Research Coordinator;of the National Center for ForensicScience for facilitating this project.NIJ also thanks the law enforcementagencies, academic institutions, andcommercial organizations worldwide thatsupplied contact information, referencematerials, and editorial suggestions.On February 18, 2003, the forensic communitylost one of its leaders, TomShepardson, National Commander,Disaster Mortuary Operational ResponseTeam (DMORT). Tom was a man of conviction,dedicated to his country, and a truebeliever that deceased individuals shouldbe treated with the utmost respect anddignity. Tom believed that “we owe it totheir families” to positively identify individualsand return them to their loved onesas quickly as possible. In essence, TomShepardson stood for everything thisguide represents.xi

ContentsMessage From the Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iiiPreface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vTechnical Working Group for Mass Fatality Forensic Identification. . . . . . . . . viiAcknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiSection 1: Initial Response Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Section 2: Arriving at the Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Section 3: Processing the Scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Section 4: Identification of Human Remains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Section 4.1: Identification of Human Remains—Medical Examiner/Coroner . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Section 4.2: Identification of Human Remains—Administration/Morgue Operations . . . . . . 19Section 4.3: Identification of Human Remains—Forensic Anthropology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Section 4.4: Identification of Human Remains—DNA Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Section 4.5: Identification of Human Remains—Fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Section 4.6: Identification of Human Remains—Odontology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Section 4.7: Identification of Human Remains—Radiology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Section 4.8: Identification of Human Remains—Antemortem Data Collection . . . . . . . . . . . 43Section 5: Disposition of Human Remains, Personal Effects, and Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Section 6: Other Issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Appendix A. Resources and Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Appendix B. Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team Activation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Appendix C. Facilities/Organizational Flow Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59xiii

Appendix D. Procedures for DNA Sample Collection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Appendix E. DNA Sample Family Reference Collection Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Appendix F. Dental Numbering System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67Appendix G. Sample Remains Release Authorization Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69List of Reviewers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71xiv

Section 1: Initial Response ConsiderationsLocal agencies are advised to develop andimplement an emergency management planbefore a mass fatality incident. Federal assistancefollowing a disaster may not be immediateand may not be forthcoming.I. Determine the Scope of theIncidentresources needed may change as theinvestigation yields additional facts anddetails.II. Know the Role of the MedicalExaminer/CoronerPrinciple. The medical examiner/coroneris responsible for establishing the causeand manner of death for the purposes ofidentifying the dead and issuing death certificates.Local/State statutes define themedical examiner/coroner’s responsibilities.Principle. A mass fatality incident canhappen anywhere and usually withoutadvance warning. When such an incident Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneroccurs, there are two phases to the is responsible for overseeing and coordiresponse—nating the provision and use of resourcesto recover and identify the dead. InitialA. Stabilizing the scene and rescuing the considerations include—injured.A. Preparing morgue/autopsy facilities.B. Recovering and identifying humanremains and evidence.Procedure. It is important that respondersen route to or arriving at the scene ask thefollowing questions to comprehend theextent of the incident—B. Establishing security and credentialingsystems.C. Coordinating the transportation ofremains from the scene to themorgue.A. What happened? D. Coordinating activities with the familyassistance center (FAC), as appropriate.B. Where did it happen?About the AuthorsE. Establishing communications and dataThe Technical Working C. How many injuries/fatalities are management systems.Group for Mass Fatality involved?Forensic Identification is a F. Establishing fiscal and materialmultidisciplinary group of D. What are the known hazards? requirements.practitioners and subjectE. What agencies are (or could become)matter experts fromG. Identifying the deceased.across the United States, involved?Canada, and EasternH. Issuing death certificates.F. Where is the scene command postEurope. Each participantlocated? I. Establishing a system for dispositionhas experience with colofthe remains.lecting, processing, andG. How will the scene be secured?identifying humanSummary. The medical examiner/coroner’sremains in the wake of a Summary. Answering these questions responsibilities include determining themass fatality incident. quickly will enable responders to notify cause and manner of death, identifyingand mobilize all appropriate resources. the dead, and returning the remains to theKeep in mind that the type and amount of legal next of kin.1

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05III. Consider AdditionalResourcesPrinciple. The magnitude of a mass fatalityincident may exceed the incident command’slocal capabilities and resources.If this happens, the incident command isexpected to immediately begin contactinglocal, State, and Federal agencies for additionalsupport (see appendix A for agencycontact information).These agencies are expected to assistwith recovery/identification operations andprovide administrative support. Dependingon the nature of the incident, agencies(e.g., the National Transportation SafetyBoard [NTSB] and the Federal Bureau ofInvestigation [FBI]) are expected to respondimmediately to the scene of theincident.Procedure. The incident command shouldconsider contacting the following local,State, and Federal resources if the scaleof the incident exceeds available resourcesand capabilities—A. Resources for the collection andidentification of remains:1. Local and State resources:a. Medical examiner/coronerpersonnel.b. Law enforcement and firedepartments.c. Canine search units.2. Federal/national resources:a. U.S. Department of HomelandSecurity, National DisasterMedical System:1) Disaster Mortuary OperationalResponse Teams (DMORT).b. Federal Bureau of Investigation(FBI):1) Critical Incident ResponseGroup (CIRG).2) Evidence Response Team(ERT).3) Laboratory Services.4) Disaster Squad.5) Hazardous MaterialsResponse Unit.c. U.S. Department of Justice,Office of Justice Programs:1) Office for Victims of Crime,Victim Assistance Center.d. U.S. Department of Defense(DoD):1) Armed Forces Institute ofPathology (AFIP):a) Office of the Armed ForcesMedical Examiner (OAFME).b) Armed Forces DNA IdentificationLaboratory (AFDIL).2) U.S. Army Central IdentificationLaboratory, Hawaii (CILHI)[now Joint POW/MIAAccounting Command].B. Additional resources:1. Local and State resources (in additionto the medical examiner/coroner):a. Crime laboratories.b. Emergency management offices.c. National Guard.d. State departments oftransportation.e. Other.2. Federal/national resources:a. Federal Emergency ManagementAgency (FEMA):1) Urban Search and Rescue(US&R) Teams.b. National Transportation SafetyBoard (NTSB).c. Other.2

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION3. Private resources: e. Private disaster responsea. Nonprofit organizations.companies.b. State funeral directors’f. Private forensic laboratories.associations.g. Educational institutions. c. State dental associations and Summary. Utilizing various resources canidentification teams.provide major assistance to local units ofd. Transportation companies.government.3

Section 2: Arriving at the SceneI. Initial Response and EvaluationPrinciple. The initial response to a massfatality incident establishes the incidentmanagement framework for the preservationof life and property and the thoroughdocumentation and collection of all remains,personal effects, and evidence. Theprocessing of evidence and human remainsis secondary to emergency servicesand safety considerations. The recoveryand collection process should be systematicand methodical to minimize the lossand contamination of evidence. Firstresponders (i.e., the first public safety personnelto arrive at the scene, whether lawenforcement officers, firefighters, or emergencymedical services [EMS] personnel)should assess the scene quickly yet thoroughlyto determine the course of actionrequired. This assessment includes thescope of the incident, emergency servicesrequired, safety concerns, and evidentiaryconsiderations.Procedure. On arriving at the scene, firstresponders (e.g., fire, police, emergencymedical personnel) are expected to—A. Officially report to the incident commandor highest ranking officer at thescene and produce appropriate credentialsas required.B. Maintain a written record, if possible,identifying all personnel and the timeof their arrival on the scene.C. Verify the type of incident (e.g., transportation,industrial, natural, or criminal)and request appropriate assistance.D. Evaluate the scope of the incident:1. Geographical extent (ensure theperimeter is large enough toencompass the entire scene).2. Number of injuries/fatalities.3. Identify eyewitnesses, if applicable.E. Identify scene hazards such as structuralcollapse, chemical and biologicalhazards, and explosive devices.F. Initiate appropriate EMS rescueprocedures.G. Leave the remains of the deceasedundisturbed.H. Establish an initial security perimeterto control entry to and exit from thescene.I. Establish an incident command postand initiate an incident managementsystem/incident command system(IMS/ICS) (see “Unified IncidentManagement System/IncidentCommand System” below for details).J. Consider key personnel required toconduct the initial recovery and investigationoperations.Summary. Based on the preliminary evaluationof the scene, first responders areexpected to identify scene hazards, requestemergency services, and establishan incident command post.II. Unified Incident ManagementSystem/Incident CommandSystemPrinciple. Initiating a unified IMS/ICS isessential for deploying and managingresources at the scene of a mass fatalityincident. This system establishes a primarypoint of contact at the scene, aneffective line of communication, and theauthority to enforce scene safety andsecurity. The incident command can usethis system to coordinate search, rescue,and recovery efforts; establish staging5

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05areas; and allocate resources, includingequipment, supplies, and personnel.Procedure. The incident command isexpected to implement the followingprocedures—A. Establish the incident command center.Possible sites may include:1. Airport hangar.2. Auditorium.3. Gymnasium.4. Warehouse.5. Tents and/or mobile units.B. Evaluate the initial response to theincident and coordinate subsequentactions.C. Establish staging area(s) for theassembly of the functional teams:1. Police, fire, and EMS personnel.2. Forensic recovery and identificationspecialists.D. Establish other functional areas asrequired:1. First aid center.2. Temporary morgue. Possible sitesmay include:a. National Guard armory.b. Airport hangar.c. Warehouse.3. Family assistance center (FAC).Possible sites may include:a. Hotel/motel.b. Conference/convention center.c. Auditorium.4. Communication center.5. Media staging area.6. Briefing/debriefing area.7. Stress management/support area.E. Address other issues directly relatedto the recovery effort:1. Parking areas.2. Utilities/power supply.3. Biohazard/refuse removal.4. Storage areas for equipment andsupplies.5. Responder accommodations(including meals, lodging, andrestrooms).6. Administrative/operationalresources:a. Office supplies/equipment.b. Electronic/computer equipment.c. Identification/recovery tools.d. Safety equipment.e. Vehicles.Summary. The incident command is responsiblefor implementing a unified IMS/ICS to facilitate the coordination, documentation,and recovery/collection of remains,personal effects, and evidence. Theincident command should use this systemto secure the scene, manage and allocateresources, and ensure safety of all personnelinvolved in the rescue and recoveryoperations.III. Scene SafetyPrinciple. Safety overrides all other concerns.First responders must take steps toidentify and remove or mitigate safety hazardsthat may further threaten victims,bystanders, and public safety personnel.To avoid injuries to themselves and others,they must exercise due caution while performingemergency operations.6

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONProcedure. Following the preliminary evaluationof the scene, first responders areexpected to—A. Assess and/or establish physicalboundaries.B. Request and/or conduct a safetysweep of the area by personnel qualifiedto identify and evaluate additionalhazards and safety concerns.C. Follow standard Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) and OccupationalSafety and Health Administration(OSHA) regulations (see appendix Afor agency contact information).D. Follow standard precautions for potentialnuclear, biological, and chemicalhazards.E. Mark hazard areas clearly and designatesafety zones.F. Communicate hazards to other personnelarriving at the scene.G. Monitor the physical and psychologicalcondition of personnel (e.g., dehydration,stress, and fatigue) and treat asnecessary.Summary. Safety is the overriding concernduring emergency operations and thesubsequent investigation. To ensure thesafety of civilians and public safety personnel,first responders should take steps toidentify, evaluate, and mitigate scene hazardsand establish safety zones.IV. Security and ControlPrinciple. First responders are responsiblefor establishing control and restrictingscene access to authorized personnel.Procedure. To establish scene securityand control, first responders are expectedto—A. Set up a security perimeter.B. Establish staffed entry/exit points.C. Restrict access (e.g., by the media,bystanders, and nonessential personnel)into and out of the scene andsecured areas through the securityperimeter:1. Issue site-specific identificationbadges (for the FAC, temporarymorgue, etc.), if possible.2. Maintain and update access logs/databases.3. Brief/debrief personnel when theyenter or leave the staging areas.D. Remove unauthorized personnel fromthe scene.E. Establish staging areas:1. Parking area (for emergency responsevehicles).2. Media staging area (for releasinginformation to the public about theincident).Summary. First responders are expectedto establish a controlled security perimeterand designate staging areas.V. Rescue-to-Recovery TransitionPrinciple. The shift from search-andrescueto search-and-recovery operationsrepresents a major operating transition.The incident command is responsible forcoordinating search-and-recovery effortswith the remains/evidence processingteams.Procedure. The incident command, togetherwith the remains/evidence processingteam leaders, is expected to considerthe following when shifting the operationfrom search and rescue to search andrecovery—A. Identify and select the remains/evidence processing team members.7

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05B. Implement a simple, consistent, andexpandable numbering system for remains,personal effects, and evidence.C. Establish recovery and evidence processingprocedures relevant to thetype and extent of the incident.D. Document the location, collection, andremoval of remains, personal effects,and other evidence.E. Establish onscene staging areas tofacilitate the efficient processing ofcollected items.F. Assign rotating shift schedules.Regardless of the type of incident, consider allremains, personal effects, and other itemsrecovered as evidence.G. Provide the remains/evidence processingteams with regular breaks, debriefings,and stress management.Summary. The incident command is expectedto implement procedures to initiatethe transition between search-and-rescueand search-and-recovery operations.8

Section 3: Processing the Scene I. Initial ConsiderationsPrinciple. The complete and accurate identificationof remains and evidentiary processingbegins at the scene of the massfatality incident. In most circumstances,the medical examiner/coroner has the ultimateresponsibility for the recovery andidentification of the deceased. The remains/evidence processing teams have to assumethat any mass fatality scene could be acrime scene. They are expected to carefullydocument every piece of physical evidencerecovered from the scene. Thescene should be large enough to ensureits protection from public access until allagencies have agreed to release the scene.Although teams can discard informationlater, scene processing always involvesthe physical destruction of the actualscene, and additional information may notbe recoverable after the scene has beenprocessed and released. Efficient informationrecovery proceeds from the least intrusiveto the more intrusive (e.g., takingphotographs is allowed only after teamslocate, flag, and sequentially number theremains). Although protocols may changein the middle of an event depending onthe scope and extent of the incident, documentingevery aspect of the remains/evidence processing operation will ensurethe preservation of information.Procedure. Before processing the scene,the incident command, in consultationwith the medical examiner/coroner, isexpected to—A. Identify team leaders responsible forremains/evidence processing.B. Determine the size and compositionof the remains/evidence processingteams (usually a function of the teamleaders), which may include:1. Medical examiner/coroner.2. Forensic anthropologist.3. Odontologist.4. Police crime scene investigator.5. Forensic photographer.6. Evidence technician.7. Scribe/notetaker.C. Integrate the remains/evidence processingteams according to existinginteragency jurisdiction and chain ofcommand. The scope and extent ofthe mass fatality incident determinesthe number of agencies involved.D. Establish and/or verify control overaccess to the scene.E. Establish communication among transportvehicles, the incident command,and the morgue.F. Establish an onscene remains processingstation.G. Consider the recovery of remains andpersonal effects as evidence and preservethe chain of custody throughoutthe recovery operation.Summary. Effective organization and compositionof the remains/evidence processingteams ensures the proper collectionand preservation of remains, personaleffects, and evidence.II. Establish a Chain of CustodyPrinciple. Establishing and maintaining achain of custody verifies the integrity ofthe evidence. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to maintainthe chain of custody throughout the recoveryprocess.Procedure. Throughout the investigation,those responsible for preserving the chainof custody are expected to—9

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05A. Document the time of arrival and III. Scene Imaging and Mappingdeparture of other personnel at thescene.Principle. The remains/evidence process-ing teams can use a grid system to divideB. Establish a standard numbering sys- the scene into manageable units to showtem at the scene that relates back to the location and context of items (i.e.,the location of the remains/evidence. their positions relative to other items) atthe scene. A grid system may need to bethree-dimensional.The remains/evidence processing teams areresponsible for assigning numbers accordingto the order in which they locate and markremains, personal effects, and evidence.Ensure that the numbering system is:1. Internally consistent and crossreferencedwith other agencies.2. Expandable.3. Simple to interpret.4. Capable of indicating where theremains, personal effects, and evidencewere recovered.5. Capable of tracking remains, personaleffects, and evidence throughoutthe investigation.6. Related to subsequent individualresults without error.7. Integrated into all protocols andreports.C. Document the collection of evidenceby recording its location at the sceneand time of collection.D. Document all transfers of custody(including the name of the recipientand the date and manner of transfer).Summary. Maintaining the chain of custodyby properly documenting, collecting,and preserving the evidence ensures itsintegrity throughout the investigation.Procedure. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to—A. Record overall views of the scene(e.g., wide-angle, aerial, 360-degree)with a designated photographer torelate items spatially within the sceneand relative to the surrounding area.A combination of still photography,videotaping, and other techniques ismost effective. Remember to:1. Consider muting the audio portionof any video recording unless thereis narration.2. Minimize the presence of scenepersonnel in photographs/videos.3. Maintain photo and video logs.B. Identify boundaries and fixed landmarks(e.g., a utility pole, building corners,or GPS-located points).C. Establish a primary point of referencefor the scene.D. Divide the scene into identifiable sectorsand create a checkerboard.E. Use accurate measuring devices.Suggestion: Consider using steel tapes (whichdo not stretch) and electronic measuring/positioningdevices. Consult with Department ofTransportation officials, crime laboratory personnel,and local and State law enforcementagencies for models and specifications.10

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONSummary. The remains/evidence processingteams are responsible for establishingan accurate, logical mapping system forthe scene.IV. Document the Location ofRemains, Personal Effects, andEvidencePrinciple. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to include documentationin the permanent record of thescene. Photographic documentation createsa permanent record of the scene thatsupplements the written incident reports.The teams are expected to complete thisdocumentation, including location information,before the removal or disturbance ofany items. Videotaping may serve as anadditional record but not as a replacementfor still photography.Procedure. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to—A. Photograph individual items (midrangeand close) with an identifier (i.e., a grididentifier and/or individual item number)and scale. Consider including adirectional compass arrow that pointsnorth.B. Attach identifying numbers and flag allremains, personal effects, and evidencein the grid:1. Use a waterproof ink marker.2. Ensure that numbers on the flagscorrespond with those on the remainsand are also clearly discerniblein the photograph.C. Ensure that the systematic onscenedocumentation of all remains, personaleffects, and evidence includes:1. The sequential numbering systemat the scene.2. Recovery location information.3. Notes that may help with personalidentification or scene reconstruction(e.g., generic descriptors, suchas a foot or shoe).4. Documentation of the evidence collector(e.g., the collector’s uniqueidentifier and the date and time ofrecovery).D. Conduct the systematic removalof remains, personal effects, andevidence:1. Using a permanent marker, markthe outside of the primary bag orcontainer and tag with the identifyingnumber, the collector’s uniqueidentifier, and the date and time ofcollection.2. Place the same identifying numberon the inside of the body bag orother bag or container.3. Do not remove any personal effectson or with the remains. Transport allpersonal effects on or with theremains to the morgue.4. When necessary, wrap the headbefore moving it to protect cranial/facial fragments and teeth.Do not assume that fragmented remains areassociated with each other.E. After removing the remains, photographthe areas from which evidencewas recovered to document whetheranything was under the remains.F. After the remains/evidence processingteams have cleared the area andbefore releasing the scene for publicaccess, conduct a final shoulder-toshouldersweep search to locate anyadditional items.11

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Summary. The remains/evidence processingteams must properly document thecollection of all remains, personal effects,and evidence before removing them fromthe scene.V. Onscene Staging AreaPrinciple. The remains/evidence processingteams should use the onscene stagingarea for checking documentation, maintainingthe chain of custody, and conductingpotential triage functions. At this area,the remains/evidence processing teamscan add notes to aid personal identificationat the morgue (e.g., comments about tattoos,marks, and scars) and identify contentsof body bags (e.g., watches, bodyparts). The remains/evidence processingteams are responsible for closing and lockingbody bags at this point.Procedure. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to—A. Establish a staging area proximate tothe incident scene that provides maximumsecurity from public and mediascrutiny and access (including a no-flyzone over the site).B. Remand evidence that is not requiredto accompany the remains to the mortuaryto the custody of the appropriateagency.C. Maintain the chain of custody of bodybags:1. Maintain a log of the body bags thatare transported from the stagingarea to the morgue.2. Record drivers’ names and thelicense numbers of vehicles.3. Record dates and times that allvehicles leave for the morgue.D. Maintain equipment and supplies atthe staging area. Inventory resourcesmay include:1. A large tent.2. Body/storage bags.3. Litters, gurneys, and stretchers forremains transport.4. Refrigeration vehicles.5. Emergency lighting.6. Sawhorses with plywood boardsfor makeshift examination tables.7. Tarpaulins or other screeningmaterials to create visual barriers.8. Decontamination control.9. Inventory control system.10. Equipment storage.11. Personal protective equipment.E. Notify the morgue when transport ofremains will begin.Summary. The remains/evidence processingteams are expected to maintain a securetriage area for initial examination of remainsand other evidence and to ensuresecure transport to the morgue. Stronglyconsider placing forensic identificationspecialists at the staging area, as initialevaluations at this point will dictate theefficiency of subsequent morgue operations.12

Identification of Human Remains SECTION 4Section 4.1Identification of Human Remains—Medical Examiner/CoronerSection 4.2Identification of Human Remains—Administration/Morgue OperationsSection 4.3Identification of Human Remains—Forensic AnthropologySection 4.4Identification of Human Remains—DNA AnalysisSection 4.5Identification of Human Remains—FingerprintsSection 4.6Identification of Human Remains—OdontologySection 4.7Identification of Human Remains—RadiologySection 4.8Identification of Human Remains—Antemortem Data Collection13

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05each piece of evidence. This function alsoincludes safeguarding all potential physicalevidence and/or property and clothing thatremain on the deceased.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to—A. Limit access to entry/exit areas:1. Maintain and update a registryof solicited volunteers and theirqualifications.2. Maintain and update a registry ofunsolicited volunteers (whose servicesmay or may not be required).B. Issue/verify identification badges withphotographs or other secure identifiers(e.g., thumbprints).C. Determine/review staffing needsand ensure adequate facilities andequipment.D. Differentiate normal from mass fatalitymorgue cases.E. Assign reasonable work schedules.F. Consider providing stress managementcounseling for the remains/evidence processing teams, morguestaff, and their families.G. Maintain a daily activity log thatrecords:1. The identification, reassociation,and disposition of all remains.2. An inventory of donated, loaned, orpurchased items.Summary. Implementing morgue operationand security procedures facilitatesthe proper identification of the deceased,maintains a proper chain of custody, andsafeguards property and evidence.III. Examine and DocumentRemainsPrinciple. The examination and documentationof remains provides detailed informationabout the deceased’s physicalattributes and the possible cause, manner,and circumstances of death. The medicalexaminer/coroner is responsible for maintainingall records and documentation,including notes, diagrams, photographs,radiographs/x-rays, fingerprints, and otherimages.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to—A. Document where the remains werefound and where death occurred.B. Control and document how theremains are transported from thescene to the morgue.C. Ensure that all remains are properlyphotographed.D. Document the presence or absence ofclothing and personal effects.E. Diagram/describe in writing itemsof evidence and their relationship tothe remains (with necessarymeasurements).F. Document general physicalcharacteristics.G. Document the presence or absenceof specific marks, scars, tattoos, andexternal prostheses:1. Ensure total body radiographs/x-raysare made (if indicated).2. Provide anthropological consultation(if indicated).H. Document the presence or absence ofinjury/trauma.I. Document fingerprints (and handprints,toe prints, or footprints ifindicated).16

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONJ. Document the presence or absence ofany items or objects that may be relevant(including internal prostheses,implants, etc.).K. Document the dental examination (see“Section 4.6: Identification of HumanRemains—Odontology” for procedures).L. Collect appropriate DNA and toxicologysamples (see “Section 4.4:Identification of Human Remains—DNA Analysis” for procedures).M. Conduct a complete autopsy (ifindicated).Summary. The medical examiner/coronerevaluates and documents all evidencerelated to the remains to establish theidentity of the deceased and determinethe cause and manner of death.IV. Collect, Inventory, and SecurePersonal Effects and Evidenceon/in RemainsPrinciple. Medical examiners/coroners areexpected to safeguard the valuables andproperty of the deceased to ensure properprocessing and eventual return to the legalnext of kin. They also are expected to safeguardevidence on or near the remains toensure its availability for further evaluation.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to ensure that all property andevidence is collected, inventoried, protected,and released as required by lawaccording to the following functions—A. Photograph the evidence (include anidentification number with each photograph),including:1. Remains.2. Physical characteristics (e.g.,tattoos, scars, or marks).3. Wounds.4. Personal effects (e.g., clothing andjewelry).B. Collect associated physical evidence(e.g., explosives residue or other tracematerial).C. Collect, inventory, and safeguardmoney at the scene and the morgue(with a witness present).D. Collect, inventory, and safeguard personalvaluables/property (e.g., clothingand jewelry) at the scene and themorgue:1. Collect and store personal effects inpaper bags (for airing and drying).2. Clean each personal item removedfrom the remains (especially jewelry)and preserve with an appropriateidentification number.Take DNA samples from personal effectsbefore cleaning and cataloging them.3. Use photographs when applicablefor viewing and recognition by familymembers.Summary. Collecting property and preservingevidence is critical for ensuring thechain of custody and admissibility in casesof legal action.V. Establish Identification of theDeceasedPrinciple. Confirming the identity of thedeceased is critical to the death investigation.Proper identification is necessary tonotify the legal next of kin, resolve estateissues and criminal/civil litigation, andissue death certificates.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris responsible for establishing the identityof the deceased using the followingmethods—17

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05A. Presumptive:1. Direct visual or photographic identificationof the deceased if visuallyrecognizable.2. Personal effects (e.g., wallets,jewelry), circumstances, physicalcharacteristics, tattoos, and anthropologicaldata.B. Confirmatory:1. Fingerprints (including handprints,toe prints, and footprints ifindicated).2. Odontology.3. Radiology.The medical examiner/coroner is expected toconduct regular meetings with those assistingwith the identification of the deceased to ensureconcordance and resolve discrepanciesbefore releasing the remains.4. DNA analysis.5. Forensic anthropology.Summary. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to use all available methods ofidentification to confirm the identity of thedeceased. Confirming identity is essentialfor resolving investigative, family, estate,judicial, and vital record issues.18

Section 4.2: Identification of Human Remains—Administration/Morgue OperationsI. Establish Morgue OperationsPrinciple. Establishing morgue operationsduring a mass fatality incident may requireexpanded operations. The medical examiner/coroneris usually responsible for coordinatingthe logistical requirements tosupport sustained operations in an orderlyenvironment.Procedure. Consider the following functionalareas in order to sustain the morgueoperations from intake to release/disposition—A. Identify the morgue operations supervisor,usually the medical examiner/coroner or designee, responsible fordirectly supervising the followingindividuals:1. Public information officer (PIO).2. Safety officer.3. Liaison officer for interagencycoordination.B. Identify the operations section leader(not necessarily a forensic specialist),who is expected to:1. Report directly to the medicalexaminer/coroner.2. Supervise the overall morgueoperation.C. Plan in advance of the incident for theuse of forensic identification specialists(e.g., DNA analysts, fingerprintexaminers, forensic anthropologists)who are expected to report to themedical examiner/coroner.D. Establish the following resource managementunits:1. Resource unit (for tracking availableresources and staff work schedules).When the medical examiner/coroner requiresteams of forensic specialists, ensure that teamleaders are selected and introduced to the medualsdesignated to serve as the functionalical examiner/coroner. Team leaders are individgerprints,forensic anthropology, odontology).heads of forensic identification teams (e.g., fin­They are responsible for organizing and directingthe teams’ activities. Effective team leaderstypically have experience working a mass fatalityincident and understand the forensic issuesinvolved. Team leaders may also have specializedcertifications in their disciplines.2. Situation unit (for collecting andentering data, preparing reports,and developing projections).3. Documentation unit (for organizingand maintaining all records).4. Demobilization unit (for releasingthe scene).Summary. Establishing an effectivemorgue operation helps ensure properinvestigation, identification, and return ofremains and personal effects to the legalnext of kin.II. Establish Workstation FlowPrinciple. Ensuring the systematic andcomprehensive examination of the remainseffectively leads to a positive identificationand preservation of evidence.Procedure. The following functional activitiesare suggested in the order listed, butthat order may be altered to accommodatethe situation (see appendix C for workflowdiagrams for forensic identification andforensic information management andcoordination)—19

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05A. Establish and secure an intake/admitting/triage area:1. Assign escorts (one escort per bodyor set of remains).2. Assign a case number.3. Establish a case file.4. Weigh (and measure if applicable)the remains.5. Conduct triage.B. Photograph remains and personaleffects.Summary. Effective and organized workstationsat the morgue facility provide foran orderly and consistent operation andreduce the potential for error.III. Establish a ForensicIdentification TeamPrinciple. The medical examiner/coroner isresponsible for establishing an identificationteam of specialists from a variety offorensic disciplines. These identificationspecialists are expected to compare antemortemto postmortem records and reporttheir findings to the medical examiner/coroner for review and final approval.Procedure. Depending on the extent ofthe incident, consider the following forensicidentification specialists for comparingantemortem to postmortem records—A. Evidence technician.B. Fingerprint examiner.C. Forensic anthropologist.D. DNA analyst.E. Odontologist.F. Forensic photographer.G. Pathologist.H. Radiologist and radiographic technicians.I. Toxicologist.Summary. A forensic identificationteam is an essential part of the forensicinvestigation.IV. Other ConsiderationsPrinciple. In addition to overseeing morgueoperations, the medical examiner/coroneris expected to consider other details criticalto the efficient collection, identification,documentation, and release of remainsand personal effects.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to consider the following—A. Use recognized, standard forms forthe collection, collation, and matchingof antemortem with postmortemrecords.Many of these sample forms are availablethrough agencies via the Internet or onCD–ROM. Many of the agencies listed inappendix A offer electronic forms.B. Establish and/or maintain a simple,concise, and continuous numberingsystem.C. Conduct regular team briefings:1. Consider scheduling and conductingdaily briefings for all personnelinvolved.2. Schedule briefings to cover shiftchanges, personnel transitions,duration of work, and rumor control.D. Establish morgue security by restrictingmorgue access to authorizedpersonnel.E. Prohibit personal photography.F. Monitor the physical condition andemotional well-being of those allowedto assist in the morgue operation.20

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONRestricting access to the morgue preservesthe integrity of the investigation, maintains thedignity of the deceased, limits exposure tochemical and biological hazards, minimizes thedisruption of the chain of custody, restrictsaccess to log documentation, and prevents thecontamination of evidence.G. Provide family support to members ofthe remains/evidence processing andmorgue operation teams, including:1. Grief counseling.2. Phone/Internet access.H. Recognize the contributions of firstresponders, morgue staff, and membersof the various forensic identificationteams after releasing the scene.Review records to ensure that all forms areaccurate, legible, complete, and signed. Verifythat all images are accounted for and logged.Summary. Maintaining proper morgueoperations helps to ensure a quality invesdispositionof thetigation that leads to the identification anddeceased.Consider using the Internet and facsimilemachines for the transfer of antemortemrecords and documents. Be aware that lines ofcommunication may be down in the early hoursfollowing a mass fatality incident. Hard copiesof documents must follow electronic transferto ensure the chain of evidence.I. Maintain quality control.21

Section 4.3: Identification of Human Remains—Forensic AnthropologyI. Role of the ForensicAnthropologistPrinciple. The forensic anthropologistassists in the recovery and identification ofremains following a mass fatality incident.A forensic anthropologist has specialized training,education, and experience in the recovery,sorting, and analysis of human and nonhumanremains, especially those that are burned, commingled,and traumatically fragmented.Procedure. In a mass fatality incident, theforensic anthropologist assists in the recovery,sorting, analysis, and identificationof remains. Specifically, with regard to theidentification of human remains, the forensicanthropologist is expected to—A. Provide information concerning thebiological characteristics (e.g., age atdeath, sex, race, and stature) of thedeceased.B. Assist the medical examiner/coronerin determining the circumstances surroundingthe death of the individual.Summary. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to assist with the recovery,analysis, and identification of the remains.II. Initial EvaluationPrinciple. The specifics of the mass fatalityincident determine the relative state ofpreservation and degree of fragmentationof the remains.Procedure. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to—A. Evaluate and document the conditionof the remains, including:1. Complete remains.2. Fragmented remains.3. Burned remains.4. Decomposed remains.5. Commingled remains.6. Any combination of the above.B. Separate obviously commingled remainsto calculate the minimum numberof individuals, while ensuringcontinuity of the established numberingsystem.C. Analyze the remains to determine sex,age at death, stature, and other distinguishingcharacteristics.D. Assist in determining the need foradditional analysis by other forensicidentification disciplines (e.g., radiology,odontology).E. Maintain a log of incomplete remainsto facilitate future reassociation.F. Document, remove, and save nonhumanand/or nonbiological materials forproper disposal.Summary. The forensic anthropologistassesses the condition of the remains andassists in analyses.III. Forensic AnthropologicalAnalysisPrinciple. The forensic anthropologistis expected to analyze the remains,depending on their condition, using variousmethods to determine biologicalattributes (e.g., age, sex, race, stature, and23

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05idiosyncrasies). Even very small skeletalfragments may be useful in both personalidentification and determination of the circumstancessurrounding death.Procedure. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to evaluate, when possible, thefollowing—A. Sex.B. Age at death.C. Race.D. Stature.E. Antemortem pathological conditions(e.g., diseases or healed fractures).F. Anomalies/abnormalities (including surgicalhardware and prosthetic devices).G. Perimortem trauma.Summary. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to use skeletal features to developa biological profile.IV. Additional ForensicProceduresPrinciple. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to assist in other procedures anduse additional information from other forensicidentification specialists in the analysisof remains.Procedure. The forensic anthropologist isexpected to assist with the following—A. Obtaining DNA samples from soft tissueand bone.B. Taking and interpreting radiographs/x-rays.C. Interpreting trauma (with the medicalexaminer/coroner).D. Obtaining and isolating dentalevidence.E. Comparing antemortem and postmortemrecords.Summary. The multidisciplinary approachto the identification process is vital to thesuccessful response to and outcome of amass fatality incident.24

Section 4.4: Identification of Human Remains—DNA AnalysisI. Initial ConsiderationsPrinciple. For cases involving mass fatalitiesand/or highly fragmented remains,DNA provides an essential component ofthe identification process. DNA analysiscan 1) identify the victims, 2) associatefragmented remains, and 3) assist in ongoingmedical and legal investigations. Themedical examiner/coroner is responsiblefor making the initial decision as to theprimary goal of the DNA identificationefforts: whether to pursue a medical legalfinding of death for each victim or to identifyall biological material recovered. Thisdecision will have a significant impact onthe scope of the identification process.Procedure. The availability and utilizationof DNA resources will vary according tothe scope of the incident as well as thejurisdiction. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to evaluate the available DNAtesting resources and establish formalagreements with laboratories capable ofsupporting the jurisdiction’s mass fatalitycontingency plan.A. Resources. The ready availability ofhigh-throughput DNA analysis is capableof meeting the many complexitiespresented by larger mass fatality incidentsand/or severe victim fragmentation.Smaller incidents may not requirespecial resource considerations relatingto specimen tracking and DNA analyticalthroughput. However, specimentracking, data management, and theinterpretation of results representsignificant challenges. It is essential tohave an inventory system available tolog and track potentially tens of thousandsof specimens. Testing laboratoriesare expected to use specializedsoftware to facilitate the tracking,searching, and interpretation of largenumbers of DNA profiles.B. Technology. The medical examiner/coroner, in consultation with the DNAlaboratory, is expected to determinewhich DNA analysis methods will beused to assist in the identificationprocess.C. Timelines. The medical examiner/coroner, in consultation with the DNAlaboratory, is expected to establishrealistic timelines for the completion ofthe DNA identification process basedupon an assessment of the laboratories’capacities and data interpretationcapabilities. The medical examiner/coroner is expected to resist adjustingtimelines based on influences thatcould be detrimental to the overallidentification effort.Summary. Adequate resources and realistictimelines play a significant role in determiningthe extent to which DNA analysismay be used in the identification process.II. Sample Collection for DNAAnalysisPrinciple. DNA analysis is a comparisonscience requiring one or more valid referencesamples to identify human remainsaccurately. Three types of biologicalsamples are collected to conduct DNAanalysis—A. Human remains.B. Appropriate family references.C. Direct references (e.g., biological specimensand personal effects).Collect samples in a manner that preventsloss, contamination, or deleterious changeand that involves the initiation of a properchain of custody. Ensure that sample preparationincludes provision for specimen25

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05inventory, appropriate transport and storageof large numbers of samples, andaccompanying documentation.Procedure. Consider these followingsteps when collecting the following referencesamples—A. Human remains:1. Collection:a. Collect, place, and appropriatelystore samples of suitable size inseparately labeled containers(see appendix D for detailed DNAsample collection procedures).b. Store samples without preservatives(e.g., formaldehyde).c. When possible, collect samplesfrom human remains for DNAanalysis in conjunction with otherforensic specialists at the designatedmorgue facility.2. Documentation:a. Ensure that all remains submittedfor DNA analysis have beenphotographed and documentedat the designated morgue facility.b. Use a numbering system that isintegrated or derived from theincident management system/incident command system (IMS/ICS) to uniquely identify eachspecimen. This can reduce transcriptionerrors, minimize confusion,and reduce the possibilityof misattribution that can arisefrom the use of alternative orredundant numbering systems.Avoid creating a new numberingsystem whenever possible.3. Staff:a. Designate qualified staff membersresponsible for collectingsamples for DNA analysis. Thiscollection process may involveteams of two or more individuals:1) The staff member who takesthe sample (e.g., the medicalexaminer/coroner or anthropologist)is expected to be ableto assess its suitability forDNA analysis and identify thespecies and anatomical originof the specimen.2) The staff member who recordsthe sample verifies the sampledescription, assigns or maintainsa unique identifier, maintainsthe chain of custody, andensures proper storage (e.g.,freezing the sample in a securelocation).b. Request that the staff involvedin collecting samples provide aDNA reference sample to beused for elimination purposes.4. Samples for analysis. Take specimensfor analysis from:a. Positively identified remains. Takesamples for DNA analysis even ifthe remains have already beenidentified because the DNA resultscan be used for reassociationof fragmented remains, theidentification of kindred victims,or elimination purposes.b. Fragmented remains. The medicalexaminer/coroner is expectedto determine the goal of the identificationeffort and establish criteriafor sample collection:1) Will all fragments be tested?2) Will only fragments meetinga certain size requirement betested?3) Will only anatomically recognizablefragments be tested?26

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION5. Preferred samples. Human remainssources include:a. Blood.b. Soft tissue:1) Deep red skeletal muscle.2) Organ tissue.3) Skin.c. Hard tissue:1) Bones.2) Teeth. 6. Sample handling:a. Tell staff members responsiblefor collecting DNA samples foranalysis to take proper precautionsto minimize the risk ofcontamination.b. Handle samples in a manner thatprevents loss or deleteriouschange:1) Use sterile and disposablesupplies for sample collectionwhenever possible.2) Discard or clean gloves andcutting instruments after takingeach sample.3) Clean instruments, work surfaces,gloves, or other itemswith commercial bleach (onepart bleach to nine partswater).B. Family references:1. Collection:a. Initiate the collection of referencesamples from members ofthe victims’ immediate familiesat the family assistance center(FAC) or other designated sites.b. Develop and implement a plan toinitiate the remote collection ofreference samples from familymembers. Use other agencies toassist as necessary.c. Place and appropriately storeindividual reference samples inseparately labeled containers.2. Documentation:a. Obtain and document informedconsent using consent formsthat have undergone legalreview:1) Include the purpose forrequesting the sample.2) Describe the intended use ofthe sample, restrictions on itsuse, and the confidentiality ofthe DNA results.b. Identify the donor:1) Confirm the donor’s credentials.2) Clearly establish the donor’sbiological relationship to thevictim.3) Obtain the donor’s contactinformation.4) Use an appropriate form (seeappendix E for DNA samplefamily reference collectionforms).c. Originate and maintain a chainof custody for donor referencesamples.d. Initiate a logical numbering systemfor all reference samplesthat is compatible with the IMS/ICS (e.g., consider allocating apredetermined block of numbersto assist in identifying the sourceof the sample).3. Staff:a. Identify and utilize appropriateindividuals or agencies for thecollection of family referencesamples.27

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05b. Train individuals to:1) Interact with victims’ relativeswith sensitivity.2) Use the proper collectionmethods (e.g., buccal swabs,fingerstick devices).3) Record accurate and reliablekinship information.4. Preferred samples:a. Blood sample collected usingvenipuncture or a fingerstickdevice.b. Two properly collected buccalswabs.5. Preferred donors. Collect the followingtypes of samples from the preferreddonors indicated:a. Short tandem repeat (STR) orother autosomal markers. Preferably,collect samples from thefollowing:1) Either or both biological parentsof the victim.2) The victim’s mate and theirbiological children.3) Biological siblings who sharethe same parents as thevictim.b. Mitochondrial DNA. Use maternallyrelated family members asreferences.c. Y-chromosomal markers. Usepaternally related family membersas references.The suitability of the donor depends on the typeof DNA analysis used. Consult the testing laboratoriesfor clarification.C. Direct reference samples:1. Collection:a. Immediately establish a point ofcontact responsible for receivingand managing the collection ofdirect reference samples.b. Ensure that the FAC and otherfamily services widely publicizethe name or location of the pointof contact and a list of items suitablefor direct DNA referencing.c. Notify family members that theycan submit direct reference samplesat the same site where theyprovide family reference samples.d. Place and appropriately storeindividual reference samples inseparately labeled containers.2. Documentation:a. Obtain appropriate documentationto allow for the correlation ofdirect reference samples to aparticular victim.b. Originate and maintain a chain ofcustody.c. Initiate a logical numbering systemfor all reference samplesthat is compatible with the IMS/ICS (e.g., consider allocating apredetermined block of numbersto assist in identifying the sourceof the sample).3. Samples for analysis:a. Take care in choosing appropriatedirect reference samples foranalysis.b. Ensure that more than one itemis submitted.c. Ensure that items are:1) Directly attributable to thevictim.2) Submitted as soon as possible.28

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION4. Preferred samples:a. Biological samples suitable fortesting include:1) Bloodstain cards (e.g., Guthriecards or cards obtained fromother repositories).2) Buccal swabs (e.g., homeDNA identification kits).3) Blood stored for electivesurgery.4) Pathology samples (e.g., biopsysamples, PAP smears).5) Extracted teeth (e.g., baby orwisdom teeth).6) Hair samples.b. Personal items include:1) Used toothbrushes.2) Used shavers/razors.3) Unwashed undergarmentsand other suitable clothingitems.4) Used personal hygiene items(e.g., feminine sanitarynapkins).5) Other personally handled orused items (consult the testinglaboratory for specificcriteria).Personal items may need to be returned todonors.Summary. The proper selection, documentation,and handling of samples andcorresponding reference submissions forDNA analysis can provide maximum assistancefor identifying the deceased.III. DNA Analysis DataManagementPrinciple. The process of accumulating,reviewing, and interpreting DNA data isthe most challenging step when employingDNA technology to identify mass fatalityvictims. The difficulty of this task iscompounded when more than one laboratoryis involved in providing DNA results.Participating laboratories should affirmtheir mutual commitment, coordinate andtrack sample flow, and agree to use compatiblesoftware applications for dataacquisition and interpretation.Procedure. DNA data management requiresa laboratory information managementsystem (LIMS) to inventory, locate,maintain chain of custody, and documentthe disposition of samples—A. Conduct DNA analysis at a single laboratorywhenever possible to minimizecomplications associated with sampleand data exchange.B. Conduct DNA analysis at more thanone testing facility if the scope of theincident exceeds a single laboratory’scapabilities. In such an event, ensurethat the participating laboratories supportcompatible software applicationsfor sample tracking, testing data production,and subsequent interpretation:1. Identify a single coordinating laboratoryresponsible for:a. Evaluating methods.b. Ensuring data quality.c. Tracking sample flow betweenlaboratories.d. Ensuring data management.e. Searching for matches betweenvictim samples and appropriatereference samples.f. Interpreting results.29

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 0530g. Conducting administrativereviews.2. Establish a secure, rapid meansof data transmission between thelaboratories.3. Ensure that all laboratories use asequential and consistent numberingsystem, including barcodingwhenever possible.C. Accumulate all data into a single databasefor interpretation.Summary. Data management of the DNAanalysis process can assist laboratorieswith the successful analysis of referencesamples and the identification of thedeceased.IV. OutsourcingPrinciple. In circumstances where thescope of the DNA analysis exceeds localcapabilities, it may be necessary to subcontractDNA testing to one or more forensicDNA laboratories. Ensure that thecapacities and capabilities of the selectedlaboratories are sufficient to meet the specificDNA analysis requirements.Procedure. Consider the following whenselecting subcontracted laboratories—A. Employ specific guidelines to assessthe abilities of laboratories beforeauthorizing analysis. Criteria caninclude the following:1. Accreditation by the AmericanSociety of Crime LaboratoryDirectors/Laboratory AccreditationBoard (ASCLD/LAB) or certificationby the National Forensic ScienceTechnology Center (NFSTC) or otherrecognized accrediting/certifyingorganizations for compliance withnational DNA standards.2. Additional accreditation or certificationas required to satisfy local jurisdictionalcriteria.B. Confirm that laboratories have compatibleDNA analysis methods, softwareapplications, and modes ofcommunication.C. Confirm that laboratories have provenexperience processing reference samplesand remains from a mass fatalityincident.D. Assess the laboratories’ capacities andcompeting priorities.E. Maintain communication with participatinglaboratories throughout theidentification process.F. Evaluate the laboratories’ performancethrough documentary review of previousaudits or by conducting sampleretesting, random reanalysis, and/orproficiency testing.Summary. Strict selection criteria, appropriatequality review, and effective communicationcan help to ensure that thedata generated by the subcontracted laboratoriescan be used with confidence foridentification purposes.V. Data InterpretationPrinciple. DNA results can be analyzedand technically reviewed according topreestablished criteria. The interpretationof DNA analysis results within the contextof the identification process can be conductedby the coordinating laboratory (orin-house laboratory, if one is available) beforereporting the results to the medicalexaminer/coroner.Procedure. The coordinating laboratory isexpected to do the following before reportingDNA analysis results to the medicalexaminer/coroner—A. Use appropriately validated DNA analysisprotocols and review procedures.B. Establish statistical criteria for kinshipor direct reference matches, dependingon the nature and scope of theincident.

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONC. Ensure the availability of appropriate D. Whenever possible, confirm DNAsoftware for storing and searchingresults from direct reference samplesDNA profiles from victims and corre­ used for identification through kinshipsponding reference samples.analysis or testing of a second directreference sample.Some mass fatality incidents will require thecapability to search large databases and clearlyrank the significance of DNA matches. Considermaking available individuals trained inthe appropriate use of the computer softwarespecifically used to develop kinship rankings.E. Consider DNA identifications putativeuntil they have undergone administrativereview by the medical examiner/coroner.Summary. The proper interpretation andreview of DNA analysis results will assistthe medical examiner/coroner in the identificationof victim remains.31

Section 4.5: Identification of Human Remains—FingerprintsI. Initiate Preparation forFingerprint ActivitiesPrinciple. Fingerprint identification is apositive means of identifying unknown victimsand confirming the identification ofthose who are tentatively identified byother means (e.g., witness descriptions orphotographs).Procedure. When it appears that the identificationof mass fatality incident victimsmay be made or expedited by fingerprintidentification, implement the followingprocedures—A. Obtain a list (e.g., a passengers’ manifestor employment records) anddescription (e.g., sex and date of birth)of possible victims:1. Obtain antemortem prints anddocument their source.2. Establish a log of antemortemprints.3. Establish antemortem and postmortemprint files.B. Establish onscene protocols for theprotection of fingerprints, palm prints,and footprints during collection andrecovery operations. The protection ofthe hands, fingers, and feet by theremains/evidence processing teams isof paramount importance.C. Establish document control and maintainthe chain of custody.D. Consult with the medical examiner/coroner and other forensic identificationspecialists to establish morgueprotocols before processing theremains.Summary. Appropriate preparation anddocumentation is essential for the successfulidentification of individuals by fingerprintexamination.II. Prepare Morgue forPostmortem FingerprintExaminationPrinciple. The fingerprint processing ofremains, especially those that have beenburned or have sustained appendage trauma,may be a long and tedious functioninvolving the use of surgical instruments,chemicals, and fingerprinting equipment.Procedure. A fingerprint processing areacan include—A. Waist-high gurneys.B. Comparison work area.C. Specialized equipment (usually providedby the fingerprint examiner).D. Desk lighting and running water.E. Appropriate airtight containers to storefingers, toes, and any ridge material.Summary. Fingerprinting remains may bea long and difficult process. The morguefacility is expected to provide a properlyequipped, safe, and adequate workspaceto facilitate the identification process.33

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05III. Commence Print ProcessingPrinciple. In conjunction with the medicalexaminer/coroner, the fingerprint examineris responsible for processing remains in aneffort to record friction ridge skin for thepurpose of identification.Procedure. When processing remains forfingerprints, palm prints, and footprints,the fingerprint examiner is expected to—A. Initiate and maintain anexamination/activity log.B. Record and verify available identifyingdata (e.g., body number, basicdescriptors).C. Photograph remains/friction ridge surfacesbefore processing.D. Examine for and collect trace evidencefrom friction ridge surfaces.E. Prepare friction ridge skin for printing.F. Obtain authorization from the medicalexaminer/coroner before removing fingersor hands:1. Label all removed body partsimmediately.2. Ensure that all labeled body partsare reassociated with the appropriatebody.G. Print all available friction ridge skin onhands and feet.H. Document the fingerprint examinationprocess:1. Record the name of the fingerprintexaminer (printed and signed) anddate of examination on the fingerprintcard.2. Document and log the number(s)assigned to the body/remains (includingdesignation and descriptors)on the fingerprint card.3. Document friction skin area recordedas well as areas not available orunsuitable for recording.It may become necessary to fingerprint survivorsof the incident for exclusionary purposes.Summary. When processing remains foridentification, the fingerprint examiner isexpected to record friction ridge surfacesprinted, document the processes employed,and maintain legible and accuraterecords.IV. Conduct Comparison andIdentificationPrinciple. The comparison of antemortemfingerprint records with those obtaineddirectly from the remains by the fingerprintexaminer may lead to the positiveidentification of the deceased.Procedure. Upon obtaining the antemortemfingerprint records of potentialmass fatality incident victims, the fingerprintexaminer is expected to—A. Compare antemortem with postmortemprints.B. Identify a second qualified fingerprintexaminer to verify all identifications(consistent with discipline standards)and document the findings on thepostmortem card.C. Initiate automated fingerprint identificationsystem (AFIS) searches in availabledatabases if no antemortemprints are present.D. Notify the medical examiner/coroner ofeach identification in a timely manner.34

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONE. Comply with jurisdictional protocol Summary. Friction ridge skin provides afor the retention or disposition of proven means of identification. Only qualidocuments.fied fingerprint examiners are expectedto make and certify comparisons andidentifications.Potential sources of known fingerprints includeemployment and government/military servicerecords. In some cases, latent handprints andfootprints can be obtained by qualified personnelfrom homes, businesses, or personaleffects of suspected victims.35

Section 4.6: Identification of Human Remains—OdontologyI. PreparationPrinciple. Dental identification is a scientificand legally accepted form of humanidentification. The creation of the forensicdental team before a mass fatality incidentis critical to a successful operation at theincident scene. The dental team leader isultimately responsible for the entire dentalteam. The dental team leader is also responsiblefor coordinating activities withother agencies (e.g., Disaster MortuaryOperational Response Team [DMORT],Federal Bureau of Investigation [FBI],National Transportation Safety Board[NTSB]) and forensic identification disciplines(e.g., forensic anthropology, fingerprints,radiology).Procedure. The designated dental teamleader is expected to—A. Establish a forensic dental identificationteam that includes antemortem,postmortem/radiology, and comparison/computerteams.B. Create a dental organizational chartto ensure the proper scheduling andmanagement of the dental team.C. Establish sources of antemortem informationand liaison with the familyassistance center (FAC) (through theNTSB or another designated organization/agency)if available.D. Assign a team member to work withother forensic identification specialistsand update the missing persons masterlist.E. Select the proper (printed and electronic)forms:1. Use standard forms for the entireoperation (see appendix A for linksto the forms listed below):a. Domestic forms (e.g., WinID orVictim Identification Program[VIP]).b. International forms (e.g., DisasterVictim Information [DVI]).2. Consider computer software forstoring and comparing records andradiographs/x-rays (Digital Imagingand Communications in Medicine[DICOM]-compliant if possible).F. Determine required equipment/supplies:1. Establish arrangements with suppliers.Mobile equipment can greatlyincrease the flexibility of the dentalteam.Consider the Disaster Mortuary OperationalResponse Team (DMORT) as a source forequipment, supplies, and personnel following amass fatality incident (see appendix B for informationabout DMORT activation).2. Inventory the material assets thatare available onscene to the dentalteam.Summary. Preparation and training beforean actual mass fatality incident are recommended.Proper preparation can facilitatethe smooth and effective operation of thedental team.II. Collect and Preserve DentalEvidencePrinciple. In a mass fatality incident, bodiesmay be fragmented. Forensic odontologistsare valuable at the scene to assist inthe recognition, documentation, andpreservation during transport of dental37

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05remains. A variety of antemortem dentalreferences may assist in the identificationprocess.Procedure. The dental team is expectedto—A. Identify, collect, and preserve dentalevidence:1. Consider wrapping the craniofacialremains (i.e., the head) at the sceneto prevent loss of teeth.2. Examine the body bag for possibleloose dental remains and considerthe use of large format (wholebody/screening) radiography.3. Consider onscene dental radiographs/x-rays for fragile evidence that maynot survive transport to the morgue.B. Assist other forensic identificationspecialists (e.g., anthropologists andpathologists) with recognizing dentalevidence.C. Request original antemortem dentalinformation (including radiographs/x-rays, films, photographs, casts, andelectronic images) through the FACor another designated agency/organization if available.III. Dental RecordsPrinciple. Dental identification requiresthe comparison of antemortem with postmortemdental findings. These two typesof dental records will reflect the comprehensiveantemortem dental information(collected on a single form or record if possible)with the dental autopsy results.When questions arise, engage in dentistto-dentistdiscussions.Procedure. The following approach canensure the proper documentation of dentalidentification procedures—A. Antemortem dental examination:1. Establish a contact/liaison with theagency or organization responsiblefor collecting antemortem dentalinformation (e.g., the FAC, FBI,sheriff, or medical examiner/coroner’s office).2. Consolidate individual antemortemdental information (e.g., medicaland dental records, photographs,and radiographs/x-rays) into a single,comprehensive antemortem dentalform/record using a standard chartingformat. This is perhaps the mostimportant part of the dental identificationoperation.The family assistance center (FAC) can expeditethe authorization of records to facilitate communicationbetween the dental team and the victims’dentists.Be aware of different dental numbering systems(e.g., left versus right) and radiograph/x-raymounting techniques (see tables for dental numberingsystems in appendix F).Summary. Dental remains, which mightbe fragile and difficult to identify, may providethe only evidence for securing a positiveidentification of the victim. The dentalteam is expected to assist other forensicidentification specialists as necessary.3. Consider using computer-assistedprograms to assist with the sortingand storage of both antemortemand postmortem information.38

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION4. Review relevant local, State, andFederal statutes to determine howto obtain antemortem information.The dental team leader can ensure quality controlover the dental identification process by 1)assigning two or more individuals to each dentalteam and 2) reviewing (or assigning a designeeto review) and approving all forms/records beforethe release of remains.B. Postmortem dental examination:1. Perform extra/intra-oral photography(either conventional or digital) asrequired.2. Obtain radiographs/x-rays:a. Obtain postmortem radiographs/x-rays (either conventional or digital)according to guidelines recommendedby the AmericanBoard of Forensic Odontology(ABFO).b. Ensure that the postmortem dentalteam leader reviews all postmortemradiographs/x-rays forquality control.Perform facial dissection to gain access only ifrequired and approved by the medical examiner/coronerfor clinical and radiographic examinations.If resection (i.e., removing the jawfragment) is required, then it is imperative tolabel and bag these specimens and ensure theyremain with the body.b. Assign more than one dentalteam member to conduct theexamination and review resultsfor quality control.4. Consolidate postmortem dentalinformation (e.g., medical and dentalrecords, photographs, andradiographs/x-rays) onto a single,comprehensive postmortem dentalrecord/form using a standard chartingformat.Summary. The dental team can accomplishdental identification if there is adequatedocumentation of antemortem andpostmortem evidence (e.g., clinical chartingof dental procedures, radiographs/x-rays, and photographic documentationof dental restorations, skeletal landmarks,or disease conditions).IV. Compare RecordsPrinciple. Dental identification is possibleby comparing identified antemortem documentationwith postmortem documentationof unknown remains from the incidentscene.Procedure. The dental team is expectedto—A. Compare summarized antemortemand postmortem information.Two methods can be used for comparing antecomputer-assistedprograms to prioritize amortem with postmortem information: 1) comparinghard copies manually by walking arounda series of tables/view boxes or 2) usinglist of possible matches.3. Conduct the clinical examination:a. Conduct a clinical examination todocument postmortem dentalfindings.B. Ensure the mandatory peer review ofthe antemortem, postmortem, andcomparison record processes.39

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05C. Establish procedures for contactingdentists of record if the dental teamrequires additional dental information.Summary. Dental identification requiresthe comparison of antemortem and postmorteminformation. Dental identificationteams involved in comparing informationare expected to consider all methods available,including clinical restoration, skeletal(i.e., jaw and skull) anatomy, and observablediseases. Compare records accordingto standardized protocol. The dental teamleader is expected to ensure the completedocumentation of this comparison process.V. Final Comparison andIdentificationPrinciple. The dental team can make adental identification by comparing a knownreference (i.e., antemortem information)with dental information from unidentifiedremains. This process contributes to thefinal report issued by the medical examiner/coroner.Procedure. The dental team is expectedto—A. Use a comparison/summary form(i.e., one that incorporates text and/orgraphical comparison data [e.g., WinIDodontogram or radiographs/x-rays]) ofthe dental/anatomic similarities forboth antemortem and postmortemdental information.B. Arrive at a conclusion (after comparingantemortem with postmortem dentalinformation) reflected in the four categoriesbelow:1. Positive dental identification.2. Possible (i.e., “consistent with”)dental identification.The term “consistent with” implies a possibleidentification. Although it does not connote apositive identification, it helps prioritize a possibleidentification by other means.3. Exclusion.4. Inadequate information forcomparison.C. Submit the signed and verified comparisondocument (e.g., a letter, aform, or an image-enabled report featuringpictures of radiographs/x-rays) tothe medical examiner/coroner.Summary. The primary mission of thedental team is generating identificationconclusions and reporting them to themedical examiner/coroner.40

Section 4.7: Identification of Human Remains—RadiologyI. IntroductionRadiology provides vital support to themedical examiner/coroner. The radiologistconducts radiograph/x-ray examinationsto detect radiopaque evidence; identifiesremains by comparing antemortem withpostmortem radiographs/x-rays; andassists pathologists, anthropologists,and odontologists in the interpretation ofradiographs/x-rays. The medical examiner/coroner should consider establishing aradiology team early on in the investigationprocess.II. Equipment/SuppliesPrinciple. The radiology team should usethe necessary equipment and supplies toradiograph/x-ray remains.Procedure. The radiology team leader isexpected to—A. Address radiation safety issues suchas shielding.B. Identify sources of equipment or additionalfacilities.III. RadiographsPrinciple. Take radiographs/x-rays of allrecovered remains before forensic processing.The radiology team may use additionalimaging for clarification of detailsand potentially for primary radiographicidentification. The radiology team leader isexpected to check all radiographs/x-rays forsupporting or exclusionary informationbefore the release of the remains.Procedure. The radiology team is expectedto—A. Conduct an initial radiograph/x-ray ofthe remains.B. Conduct additional radiographs/x-raysas requested by other forensicspecialists.C. Appreciate special considerations(e.g., making radiographs/x-rays of thehands and feet of the flight crew) asthey relate to the incident.D. Assist with the comparison of antemortemand postmortem radiographs.Summary. Radiology is a vital early stepin processing the remains, supporting orexcluding potential identification andpotentially serving as a primary means ofidentification.41

Section 4.8: Identification of Human Remains—Antemortem Data CollectionPrinciple. The medical examiner/coronermay identify the deceased by the promptand efficient use of samples and data fromfamilies, individuals, and public and privateorganizations. The data may be in electronicand/or printed form. The medical examiner/coronermust have unrestricted, rapidaccess to antemortem medical, dental,and other records for comparison.The Aviation Disaster Family Assistance Act of1996 establishes procedures for contacting thelegal next of kin to request antemortem data.Federal law restricts the degree to which airlinepersonnel are involved in the collection of antemortemdata and samples. In non-transportationrelatedincidents, a local or State governmentrepresentative may assume these responsibilities.Procedure. The following are some butnot all of the factors that the appropriateadministrator is expected to consider inestablishing a family assistance center(FAC)—The type of mass fatality incident determineswho is responsible for establishing and openingthe family assistance center (FAC):■■In the event of an aviation disaster, the aircarrier is expected to establish and staff theFAC.In the event of a natural disaster, the medicalexaminer/coroner is expected to consult local,State, and nongovernmental assistanceagencies.■ For other types of disasters, consult with theprimary industry involved.A. Before the legal next of kin arrive,identify a location and establish a sitewhere they can meet to provide antemortemdata and sample records (e.g.,a hotel, auditorium, or conferencecenter).B. Consider the following recommendationsas a checklist for the FAC:1. Be prepared to meet the families asthey arrive.2. Assist when necessary in coordinatingactivities to meet the families’physical and mental needs.3. Control who gains access to theFAC.4. Conduct briefings with the familiesas necessary.5. Provide a liaison between the familiesand the agencies involved whenneeded.6. Be prepared to collect antemortemdata and provide it to the appropriateagencies as required:a. Ensure that interview rooms areprivate and quiet.b. Schedule and document all interviewswith the legal next of kin.c. Limit the number of legal next ofkin in each interview room.d. Require all interviewed legal nextof kin to complete a personalinterview form.7. Maintain confidentiality and thetrust of the families.8. Consider any additional processesthat the incident may require. Flexibilityis the key word in this process.43

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05C. Contact the legal next of kin not presentat the FAC:1. Schedule appointment times to con­tact family members.2. Review antemortem collection pro­cedures with family members overthe telephone.The medical examiner/coroner or designee mayneed to have victim records in foreign languagestranslated. See “Section 6: OtherIssues” for details.3. Ensure that the interview is privateE. Establish a location to receive all inandconfidential.coming antemortem data and samples(expected to be sent via an express4. Complete a personal interview form delivery service or brought to a receivfollowingeach telephone interview. ing area other than the morgue by aD. Identify antemortem data/samplefamily member).resources: F. Notify the legal next of kin when ante­1. Samples provided by the legal nextmortem data and samples have beenof kin:received.a. Dental records. G. Maintain a log of all incomingdata/samples.b. Medical records (including antemortemradiographs/x-rays).c. Fingerprints (derived from lawenforcement, military, andemployment records).d. Photographs.e. Biological samples (e.g., tissueblocks, slides, and DNA refer­ence samples).H. Direct all data/samples to the morguefor review and analysis.Summary. Consider the wide range ofantemortem information that can aid inidentification.44

Section 5: Disposition of Human Remains,Personal Effects, and RecordsI. Issuing the Death CertificatePrinciple. The documentation of the identification,cause, manner of death, andfinal disposition are required by law andused for vital statistics and the initiation ofprobate.Procedure. Medical examiners/coronersare expected to complete their portion andtransmit the document with the release ofthe remains. As part of this process, theyare expected to—A. Issue the death certificate.B. Record when appropriate the deathcertificate in the county or territorywhere the remains were recovered.Review local and State laws to determine theoffice/agency responsible for filing death certificates(usually the office of vital statistics).C. Issue a court-ordered certification ofdeath when no human remains arerecovered or scientific efforts for identificationprove insufficient.Summary. The death certificate is thelegal document that states the identification,cause and manner of death, demographicinformation, and final dispositionof the remains.II. Disposition of RemainsPrinciple. Every family is expected to havethe opportunity to involve itself in the decisionmakingprocess for the disposition ofremains. Public health issues associatedwith a mass fatality incident, however,may dictate the manner of disposition ofthe remains.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to follow rules regarding thenotification of the legal next of kin. Whereappropriate, in cases of fragmentationand commingling, the medical examiner/coroner is expected to explain to the familiesthe options for disposition of anysubsequently identified remains beforereleasing incomplete remains (see appendixG for a sample authorization form torelease remains).A. Facilitate coordination between thefamily assistance center (FAC) or designatedagency and local medicolegalauthorities:1. Notify the legal next of kin afterestablishing identification accordingto State and territorial laws.2. If necessary, obtain additionalinstructions regarding the dispositionof remains.B. Release all identified body parts submittedfor special studies related tothe identification process (exceptthose specimens consumed by analysisor retained for further study).Summary. This process can facilitate thetimely and dignified return of the remains,allowing the families to grieve, memorializetheir loved ones, settle estates, andresolve legal issues.Different methods exist for the disposition ofunidentified or unclaimed remains. If theremains are unidentified or identified butunclaimed, consider disposition according tolocal custom or statute. The medical examiner/coroner can consider accessing the unidentifiedremains later as a desirable option.45

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05III. Return of Personal EffectsPrinciple. Mass fatality incidents produceitems physically on the human remains(associated) and items not directly on butadjacent or within close proximity to thehuman remains (unassociated). Associateditems accompany the remains to themorgue. The medical examiner/coroner isexpected to document these items, applythem toward the identification process ifrequired, and facilitate their return. Themedical examiner/coroner also is expectedto implement a mechanism to safeguardcash and valuables.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to accomplish and documentthe following to ensure the chain ofcustody—A. Release associated/unassociated personaleffects to the agency designatedto receive those effects:1. Follow existing local protocol governingthe release of personaleffects if no such agency exists.2. Consider legislation such as theAviation Disaster Family AssistanceAct of 1996, where applicable.B. Release unclaimed personal effectsto the agency designated to receivethose effects or dispose of themaccording to existing local protocol.Summary. Treat all recovered personaleffects with care because of their importancein the identification process as wellas their intrinsic value to the families.IV. Special ConsiderationsPrinciple. Mass fatalities produce uniquechallenges that the medical examiner/coroner should address when coordinatingthe disposition of remains and personaleffects.Procedure. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to consider the following potentialissues and consult with appropriatespecialists as required—The medical examiner/coroner is expected toconduct regular meetings with those assistingwith the identification of the deceased to ensureconcordance and resolve any discrepanciesbefore the remains are released.A. Review the work of each forensicidentification team before releasingremains to the legal next of kin.B. Validate and consolidate all missingpersons lists (e.g., flight manifests,hotel registries, and employee lists).C. Understand the legal issues (e.g.,international law and treaties, maritimelaws, health regulations, and hazardousmaterials [HAZMAT] protocols).D. Respect religious and culturalconsiderations.E. Identify the legal next of kin accordingto State and territorial law.Summary. Legal, cultural, and operationalconcerns require evaluation of each massfatality incident from many differentperspectives.V. Archiving RecordsPrinciple. The medical examiner/coroneris expected to keep all records and supportingdocuments pertaining to the recovery,identification, and disposition of remainsand personal effects for future referenceas required by statute.Procedure. The medical examiner/coronercan ensure the appropriate storage, security,preservation, and retrieval of recordsand supporting documents by—46

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONA. Archiving and cross-referencing recordsthat can be retrieved as individual orgroup files for quick reference at anytime.B. Using electronic storage and retrievalmethods, if available, to archive records.Summary. Properly archived records allowfor prompt retrieval of detailed informationwhen requested for legal, information, orresearch purposes.A case involving an ongoing criminal investigationis exempt from release under State publicrecords laws. Medical, dental, psychiatric, andprescription histories do not lose their privacystatus and are not subject to the public recordslaws even after they are placed in the medicalexaminer/coroner’s case file.47

Section 6: Other IssuesI. Reimbursing Local and StateAgenciesPrinciple. Mass fatality response operationsincur expenses related to staffing,supplies, and equipment. Local/Stateemergency management departmentsshould have the appropriate documentsand procedures in place before a massfatality incident occurs within theirjurisdiction.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Understand the regulations regardingreimbursement issues.B. Provide a responsible fiscal representativeto oversee the creation of financialand expense records.C. Provide supporting documents to verify:1. The number and types of personnelinvolved.2. The number of hours worked byeach individual.3. The agencies involved.4. The supplies and equipment used.5. The services contracted.D. Coordinate with other responsibleagencies.E. Understand that some costs may belong term, including:1. Legal considerations.2. Employee health/mental healthfollowup issues.3. Disposition of evidence, remains,and records.Summary. Reimbursement for personnel,supplies, equipment, and other relatedIn aviation incidents, the air carrier may beresponsible for some expenses incurred in therecovery and identification of remains.expenses is a critical consideration thatrequires careful planning and thoroughdocumentation.II. Implementing a Transition PlanPrinciple. Effective operations require continuityof services.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Establish criteria for daily shiftchanges.B. Establish criteria for the implementationof replacement teams.C. Facilitate the communication of informationbetween teams.D. Plan regular meetings between incomingand outgoing teams.E. Hold regularly scheduled functionalspecialty meetings.Summary. Effective planning and communicationthrough regularly scheduledmeetings can foster the exchange of informationbetween the agencies and individualsinvolved in the investigation.III. Mutual AssistanceAgreementsPrinciple. Mutual aid statutes and memorandaof understanding (MOUs) providefor assistance from other jurisdictions inobtaining required support services andequipment.49

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Understand that jurisdictional andliability issues may affect the implementationof mutual assistanceagreements.B. Understand the scope of servicesavailable through existing mutual aidstatutes and how to implement suchservices.C. Identify additional needs for supportand invoke additional MOUs specifyingwhen and how these services may beimplemented.D. Know that the National Association ofCounties (NACO) and similar organizationsmaintain information and modelplans on mutual aid (see appendix Afor agency contact information).Summary. Prior planning and implementationof mutual assistance agreements andMOUs are critical to ensure cooperationand coordination in the provision of availableservices.IV. Release and Control ofInformationPrinciple. Information regarding the recoveryand identification operations is acritical element that affects the familymembers and the overall operation. Asa result, information released to themedia and the public must be managedappropriately.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Initiate and enforce uniform proceduresdetermining the release andmanagement of information. Recoveryand identification personnel should refrainfrom unauthorized communicationwith the media.Be aware that families of the deceased requirespecial consideration in the release and manwithfamilies to provide information isagement of information. Early, regular contactcritical.B. Designate a public information officer(PIO) to coordinate the release of information.Direct all media inquiries to thePIO.C. Establish categories of information forrelease to the media, families, agencies,and other parties.D. Use caution when discussing specificdisaster-related issues away from thescene.E. Brief all personnel on a regularbasis regarding the sensitivity ofinformation.Summary. Proper management andrelease of information are necessary considerationsto protect the integrity of theresponse.V. Scene Demobilization(Postincident Activities)Principle. The demobilization of agenciesand individuals assigned to process amass fatality scene requires careful planning.The participating agencies are expectedto implement scene demobilizationprocedures only after the scene is readyfor release.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Establish a demobilization plan thatincludes the following:1. Ensure appropriate decontaminationof equipment and facilities.2. Return donated/loaned equipmentand supplies.50

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATION3. Conduct postincident debriefings.4. Consult regularly with the otheragencies involved.5. Recognize the efforts of the agenciesand individuals who respondedto the incident and processed thescene.B. Reduce staff in a coordinated fashionbased on circumstances and the durationof the investigation.C. Prepare a formal after-action report citingoptimal practices and lessonslearned.Summary. Planning from the beginningfor the demobilization of the responseeffort can facilitate the smooth transitionof jurisdictional authority.VI. Stress ManagementPrinciple. Stress can negatively affect theresponders, their coworkers, and the overallefficiency of incident operation. The responseto a mass facility incident shouldinclude systems to deal with stress, whetherpsychological, physiological, acute, or longterm.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Establish a plan for recognizing andmanaging stress using personneltrained in mass fatality stressmanagement.B. Consider briefing response personnelon stress issues before theirassignment.C. Provide peer and professional supportto observe and treat personnel whomay be experiencing stress.D. Organize the response to preventstress and accommodate individualbehavior.E. Plan postincident stress debriefings forresponders and volunteers.Summary. The psychological impact onmass fatality responders is real and needsto be addressed before, during, and afterthe incident.VII. VolunteersPrinciple. Volunteers may appear at thescene of a mass fatality incident regardlessof the need for their services. Carefullyconsider choosing and using volunteers.Volunteers are expected to be used accordingto their knowledge, skills, and abilitiesas well as within liability limitations.Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Determine the need for volunteers.B. Maintain a roster of volunteers’ nameswith updated contact information.C. Establish criteria for verifying the credentialsand qualifications of volunteers.Be wary of volunteers withulterior motives.D. Develop a procedure to match volunteerswith operational needs accordingto their knowledge, skills, and abilities.E. Ensure that volunteers are supervisedby an appropriate official.Summary. Although volunteers may behelpful in some situations, cautiouslyreview their credentials and qualificationsfor the duties and functions required.VIII. Language, Cultural, andReligious ConsiderationsPrinciple. Language and cultural differencesmay complicate all parts of themass fatality response and should beconsidered in the overall plan.51

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Procedure. The appropriate administratoris expected to—A. Identify language service resourcesbeforehand (e.g., colleges and universities,embassies, hospitals, and theU.S. Department of State). These resourcesmay be valuable in interpretingantemortem information regardingforeign victims.B. Respect the cultural and religious differencesthat exist in response todeath.C. Consider using local/regional religiousofficials when addressing thesedifferences.Summary. Give advance considerationto language, cultural, and religious differenceswhen planning the response.52

Appendix A. Resources and LinksAmerican Academy of ForensicSciences (AAFS)P.O. Box 669Colorado Springs, CO 80901–0669719–636–1100http://www.aafs.orgAmerican Board of Forensic Anthropology(ABFA)http://www.csuchico.edu/anth/ABFAAmerican Board of Forensic Odontology(ABFO)http://www.abfo.orgAmerican Red Crosshttp://www.redcross.orgAmerican Society of Forensic Odontology(ASFO)http://www.asfo.orgArmed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)6825 16th Street N.W.Washington, DC 20306–6000202–782–2100http://www.afip.org Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory (AFDIL)Department of Defense DNA Registry1413 Research BoulevardBuilding 101, Second FloorRockville, MD 20850–3125301–319–0000http://www.afip.org/Departments/oafme/dnaArmed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)Department of Oral and MaxillofacialPathology6825 16th Street N.W.Room 3096Washington, DC 20306–6000202–782–1800http://www.afip.org/Departments/OMaxPath2/index.htmlArmed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)Office of the Armed Forces MedicalExaminer (OAFME)AFIP/OAFME, AFIP Annex1413 Research BoulevardBuilding 102Rockville, MD 20850800–944–7912 or 301–319–0000http://www.afip.org/Departments/oafmeAmerican Society of Crime LaboratoryDirectors (ASCLD)P.O. Box 2710Largo, FL 33779727–541–2982http://www.ascld.orgAmerican Society of Crime LaboratoryDirectors/Laboratory Accreditation Board(ASCLD/LAB)139 J Technology DriveGarner, NC 27529919–773–2600http://www.ascld-lab.orgCenters for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC)1600 Clifton RoadAtlanta, GA 30333800–311–3435 or 404–639–3534http://www.cdc.govChemical Transportation EmergencyCenter (CHEMTREC)1300 Wilson BoulevardArlington, VA 22209703–741–5525http://www.chemtrec.orgDisaster Mortuary Operational ResponseTeam (DMORT)http://www.dmort.orgDMORT Victim Identification Program (VIP)VIP@DMORT.org53

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)800 Independence Avenue S.W.Room 810Washington, DC 20591http://www.faa.gov Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)J. Edgar Hoover Building935 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.Washington, DC 20535–0001202–324–3000http://www.fbi.govFBI Critical Incident Response Group(CIRG)http://www.fbi.gov/hq/isd/cirg/mission.htmFBI Disaster Squadhttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/disaster/disaster.htmFBI Evidence Response Team (ERT)http://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/ert/ertmain.htmFBI Hazardous Materials Response Unithttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/org/hmru.htmFBI Laboratoryhttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/labhome.htmFBI Laboratory Serviceshttp://www.fbi.gov/hq/lab/org/labchart.htmFederal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA)500 C Street S.W.Washington, DC 20472202–566–1600http://www.fema.govFEMA National Urban Search and Rescue(US&R) Response Systemhttp://www.fema.gov/usrInternational Association of Coroners andMedical Examiners (IACME)P.O. Box 44834Columbus, OH 43204–0834614–276–8384International Association of Identification(IAI)2535 Pilot Knob RoadSuite 117Mendota Heights, MN 55120–1120651–681–8566http://www.theiai.orgInternational Police Criminal Organization(Interpol)200 quai Charles de Gaulle69006 Lyon, FranceFax: (33) 4 72 44 71 63http://www.interpol.comInterpol Disaster Victim Identification (DVI)Guidehttp://www.interpol.com/Public/DisasterVictim/GuideInterpol Disaster Victim Identification (DVI)Formshttp://www.interpol.com/Public/DisasterVictim/FormsNational Association of Counties (NACO)440 First Street N.W.Suite 800Washington, DC 20001202–393–6226http://www.naco.orgNational Association of Medical Examiners(NAME)430 Pryor Street S.W.Atlanta, GA 30312404–730–4781http://www.thename.orgNational Guard Bureau1411 Jefferson Davis HighwayArlington, VA 22202–3231703–607–3162http://www.ngb.army.milAir National Guard Readiness Center3500 Fetchet AvenueAndrews AFB, MD 20762–515754

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONArmy National Guard Readiness Center111 South George Mason DriveArlington, VA 22204National Center for Forensic Science(NCFS)University of Central FloridaP.O. Box 162367Orlando, FL 32816407–823–6469http://www.ncfs.orgNational Forensic Science TechnologyCenter (NFSTC)7881 114th Avenue NorthLargo, FL 33773727–549–6067http://www.nfstc.orgNational Transportation Safety Board(NTSB)490 L’Enfant Plaza S.W.Washington, DC 20594202–314–6000http://www.ntsb.govOccupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA)200 Constitution Avenue N.W.Washington, DC 20210http://www.osha.govRoyal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.caU.S. Army Central IdentificationLaboratory, Hawaii (CILHI) [now JointPOW/MIA Accounting Command]310 Worchester AvenueBuilding 45Hickam AFB, HI 96853–5530808–448–8903http://www.cilhi.army.milU.S. Department of Energy (DOE)1000 Independence Avenue S.W.Washington, DC 20585800–DIAL–DOE (342–5363)http://www.energy.govU.S. Department of Homeland SecurityFederal Emergency Management AgencyNational Disaster Medical System (NDMS)Section500 C Street S.W.Suite 713Washington, DC 20472800–USA–NDMS (872–6367)http://ndms.dhhs.govU.S. Department of Homeland SecurityOffice for Domestic Preparedness810 Seventh Street N.W.Washington, DC 20531800–368–6498http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odpU.S. Department of JusticeOffice for Victims of CrimeVictim Assistance Center810 Seventh Street N.W.Washington, DC 20531800–627–6872http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovcU.S. Department of Transportation400 Seventh Street S.W.Washington, DC 20590202–366–4000http://www.dot.govU.S. Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)Ariel Rios Building1200 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.Washington, DC 20460202–272–0167http://www.epa.govWinID (Dental Computer System)http://www.winid.com55

Appendix B. Disaster Mortuary OperationalResponse Team ActivationThe Disaster Mortuary Operational ResponseTeam (DMORT) is a federally fundedteam of forensic and mortuary personnelexperienced in disaster victim identification.DMORT provides a mobile morgue,victim identification and tracking software,and specific personnel to augment localresources. DMORT is part of the NationalDisaster Medical System, a section of theU.S. Department of Homeland Security,Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA).DMORT can be activated by one of fourmethods:Federal Disaster Declaration. The FederalResponse Plan dictates how Federal agenciesrespond following a disaster. A requestfor DMORT assistance must be made by alocal official through the State emergencymanagement agency, which will then contactthe regional office of FEMA. Based onthe severity of the disaster, FEMA can askfor a Presidential disaster declaration,allowing the DMORT team to be activated.This process can take from 24 to 48 hours.Aviation Disaster Family Assistance Act.Under this Federal act, the NationalTransportation Safety Board (NTSB) canask for DMORT’s assistance. The act coversmost passenger aircraft accidents inthe United States and U.S. territories.NTSB coordinates with the local medicolegalauthority to assess local resourcesand capabilities and can activate DMORTon the request of the local authority.Public Health Act. Under this Act, theU.S. Public Health Service can providesupport to a State or locality that cannotprovide the necessary response. However,the State or locality must pay forDMORT’s services, including salary,expenses, and other costs.Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)with Federal Agency. A Federal agencymay request that DMORT provide disastervictim identification. Under this mechanism,the requesting agency must pay thecost of the DMORT deployment. As anexample, following the crash of UnitedAirlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania onSeptember 11, 2001, DMORT was activatedunder an MOU with the FBI.Other DMORT issues include thefollowing:■ DMORT normally requires 24 to 48hours to become fully operational.■ The DMORT portable morgue requiresa building for morgue operations. Thisguide lists potential disaster morguesites capable of housing the DMORTmorgue (see p. 6).■ The Federal Government pays travel,lodging, food, salary, and other expensesof DMORT personnel, except in thecase of an activation under the PublicHealth Act.■ The DMORT team supports the localmedicolegal authority by providing expertise,personnel, supplies, and equipment.The responsibility for assigningthe cause and manner of death, signingof death certificates, and death notificationremain with the local authority. Allrecords created by DMORT should beleft with the local authority. DMORTshould provide identification reports anda computer program documenting theinformation collected during theirresponse.57

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05■ The DMORT family assistance center(FAC) team assists in the organizationand operation of the FAC.■ If a DMORT team member is activatedfrom your agency to work at a disaster,that employee should present you witha copy of his or her travel orders asproof of activation.58

Appendix C. Facilities/OrganizationalFlow ChartExhibit C–1. Identification Flow Chart*TriageAdmittingBody escortsScreening/radiologyPhotography of remainsand personal effectsPersonal effects andevidence collectionPathologyForensic anthropologyFingerprints Morgue operations OdontologyDNARadiologyReturn to holding facility for final disposition*The following represents only a suggested model; this process may vary according to local circumstances.59

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Exhibit C–2. Forensic Information Management and Coordination*Family Assistance CenterTriage/admittingPathologyForensic anthropologyRadiologyPhotographyAntemortem/postmortemdata collection andcoordinationOdontologyFingerprintsPersonal effectsDNAPIO Identification review team Office administratorMedical examiner/coronerPositive identificationBody released*The following represents only a suggested model; this process may vary according to local circumstances.60

Appendix D. Procedures for DNASample CollectionThe DNA sample team works in pairs:a recorder and a sampler. The recorderescorts the remains to the worktable.Both team members verify (or establish)unique identifiers and mutually acknowledgea site for sampling (if a decision ismade not to sample the remains, therecorder notes that in the DNA RemainsTracking Log).The recorder enters the number, date,time, and description into a database orlog and labels the specimen container(e.g., tube, bag, etc.) appropriately.Using the appropriate instruments, thesampler obtains one of the following, listedin order of preference:■ 10–15 g of deep skeletal muscle (avoidtissues that may have been crushedtogether by incident impact or blastforces).■ 1–2 cm x 4–6 cm x 0.5–1 cm of corticalbone (avoid anthropological landmarks,articular margins, and fresh-broken marginswhenever possible; cut windows inlong bones and crania).■ Upper or lower canine or other intacttooth without restorations (consult anodontologist if required).■ Other portion of soft or hard tissue thatfits into a 50 ml conical tube.The recorder and sampler verify the placementof the sample in a properly labeledtube and the entry of the correspondingdata in a sample log. The sampler disposesof the bench coat, scalpel blades, androtary bits. The sampler cleans the cuttingsurface, scale, Stryker saw, rotary instrument,forceps, gloves, and hemostatswith a 10-percent bleach solution, thenwipes all surfaces down with ethanol.The medical examiner/coroner is expectedto provide guidance to the DNA sampleteam regarding tissue samples that arelikely to be exhausted during testing.If multiple, potentially unassociated remainsare in a single recovery container,the recorder or sampler is expected to separatelybag the remains from which thesample was taken. Later, when DNA resultsare obtained, the medical examiner/coroner is expected to be able to return tothat recovery container and attribute thatprofile to a specific tissue specimen withcertainty.The chain of custody is expected to list allsamples sent to the laboratory facility. Onsigning the chain of custody, the medicalexaminer/coroner is also expected to decidewhether to return any remaining softtissue or osseous sample after testing iscompleted. Because single, recoveredteeth are submitted whole, consider howto return them after testing is completed.61

Appendix E. DNA Sample Family ReferenceCollection FormsDonor InformationLast Name First Name Middle NameSocial Security Number (if applicable)Home Street AddressHome Telephone NumberCity State ZIP CountryDate of Birth (Month/Day/Year)Family RelationshipPlease circle your kinship to the missing individual.GrandmotherGrandfatherAunt Uncle Mother* Father*FemalecousinMalecousinSister*Brother*Missingindividual*Spouse*SecondcousinNieceNephewDaughter*Son*Great-niece Great-nephew Granddaughter GrandsonGreat-niece Great-nephew Granddaughter GrandsonMissing Individual InformationLast Name First Name Middle NameDate of Birth (Month/Day/Year)Social Security Number (if applicable)*Primary donor for a nuclear DNA reference (see list of primary donors on p.64).63

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Potential Living Biological DonorsMother/Father of Missing IndividualName Age Address PhoneBrothers/Sisters of Missing IndividualName Age Address PhoneSpouse of Missing IndividualName Age Address PhoneChildren of Missing IndividualName Age Address PhonePrimary Donor for Nuclear DNA AnalysisAn appropriate family member for nuclear DNA analysis is someone who is biologicallyrelated to and only one generation removed from the deceased. The following are thefamily members who are appropriate donors to provide reference specimens, in theorder of preference:1. Natural (biological) mother and father, or2. Spouse and natural (biological) children, or3. Natural (biological) mother or father and victim’s biological children, or4. Multiple full siblings of the victim (i.e., children from the same mother and father).64

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONSample Donor Consent FormNote: This form is a sample only based on forms developed by the Armed Forces for the DOD DNA registry.The law concerning DNA samples varies across jurisdictions. Modify forms accordingly.PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT/STATEMENT OF CONSENTAUTHORITY:PRINCIPAL PURPOSE(S):ROUTINE USE(S):DISCLOSURE:5 U.S.C. 301; 10 U.S.C. 3012; Pub. L. 91–121, Section 404 (a) (2); andmemo dated 16 December 1991 from Deputy Secretary of Defense,Subject: DOD DNA Registry. Also under authority of 10 U.S.C. 176and 177, Pub. L. 94–361; DOD Directive 5154.23; and, if SocialSecurity number collected, EO 9397.Establish a DNA reference specimen repository and database ofinformation from kindred family members of unaccounted for/unidentifiedservice members or other individuals who need to be identified.DNA will be extracted from either vials of blood, dried blood,and/or oral swabs, and will be used in identifying human remains.None.Voluntary. Failure to provide reference sample or information mayrender DNA identification impossible.STATEMENT OF CONSENTThe above answers are correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and I understand that myanswers are important in determining my kindred family relationship to an unaccounted for servicemember or other unaccounted for individual. I have also read the Privacy Act statement above.Realizing that nuclear or mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) may be extracted from myblood and used in the identification of a kindred family member, I agree to donate my blood, tohave my DNA analyzed if necessary, and to have my name and other relevant typing informationplaced in a confidential registry or database for identification and statistical analysis.I am voluntarily donating tubes of blood via venipuncture, or if impracticable, consenting to the fingerstickmethod of securing a small amount of blood, or allowing the taking of an oral swab.I have not received a blood transfusion within the last 3 months (if you have received a transfusion,please wait for a period of 90 days following the transfusion before providing the referencesample).I consent to the Armed Forces using the information and specimens for the identification of anyunaccounted for family members.______________________________ ________________________________ _________________Signature of Donor Printed Name of Donor DateVERIFICATION OF DONOR IDENTIFICATION AND SPECIMEN COLLECTIONI have verified from a photo ID that the blood or other biological specimen collected has come fromthe above-stated donor, and have confirmed the donor’s name and/or Social Security numberplaced on the collection tubes.______________________________ ________________________________ _________________Signature of Collector Printed Name of Collector Date65

Appendix F. Dental Numbering SystemExhibit F–1. Dental Nomenclature Conversion Table: Deciduous Teeth (Revised) aDeciduous Upper right Upper leftSystem/tooth b 2M 1M C I2 I1 I1 I2 C 1M 2MUniversal A B C D E F G H I JPalmer E+ D+ C+ B+ A+ +A +B +C +D +EFDI 55 54 53 52 51 61 62 63 64 65Hareup 05+ 04+ 03+ 02+ 01+ +01 +02 +03 +04 +05Other V IV III II I I II III IV VOther 5D 4D 3D 2D 1D 1D 2D 3D 4D 5DOther d5 d4 d3 d2 d1 d1 d2 d3 d4 d5Other 5m 4m 3m 2m 1m 1m 2m 3m 4m 5mOther A B C D E E D C B AOther dm2 dm1 dc di2 di1 di1 di2 dc dm1 dm2FDI Modified 55 54 53 52 51 61 62 63 64 65Lower rightLower left2M 1M C I2 I1 I1 I2 C 1M 2MUniversal T S R Q P O N M L KPalmer E­ D­ C­ B­ A- -A -B -C -D -EFDI 85 84 83 82 81 71 72 73 74 75Hareup 05­ 04­ 03­ 02­ 01- -01 -02 -03 -04 -05Other V IV III II I I II III IV VOther 5D 4D 3D 2D 1D 1D 2D 3D 4D 5DOther d5 d4 d3 d2 d1 d1 d2 d3 d4 d5Other 5m 4m 3m 2m 1m 1m 2m 3m 4m 5mOther A B C D E E D C B AOther dm2 dm1 dc di2 di1 di1 di2 dc dm1 dm2FDI Modified 75 74 73 72 71 81 82 83 84 85a Compiled by Robert Dorion, D.D.S., Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Odontology. Reprinted from Bowers, C. Michael, andGary Bell, eds., Manual of Forensic Odonotology, 3d ed., American Society of Forensic Odontology, 1995.b 2M=second molar; 1M=first molar; C=cuspid; I2=second incisor (lateral incisor); I1=first incisor (central incisor)67

SPECIAL REPORT / JUNE 05Exhibit F–2. Dental Nomenclature Conversion Table: Permanent Teeth—Upper (Revised) aPermanent Upper right Upper leftSystem/tooth b 3M 2M 1M 2P 1P C I2 I1 I1 I2 C 1P 2P 1M 2M 3MOther UR8 UR7 UR6 UR5 UR4 UR3 UR2 UR1 UL1 UL2 UL3 UL4 UL5 UL6 UL7 UL8Hareup 8+ 7+ 6+ 5+ 4+ 3+ 2+ 1+ +1 +2 +3 +4 +5 +6 +7 +8Palmer 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Universal 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16FDI 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28Bosworth 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Lowlands M3 M2 M1 P2 P1 C I2 I1 I1 I2 C P1 P2 M1 M2 M3Europe D8 D7 D6 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 G1 G2 G3 G4 G5 G6 G7 G8Holland sdM3 sdM2 sdM1 sdP2 sdP1 sdC sdI2 sdI1 sgI1 sgI2 sgC sgP1 sgP2 sgM1 sgM2 sgM3FDI Modified 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28Other 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1aCompiled by Robert Dorion, D.D.S., Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Odontology. Reprinted from Bowers, C. Michael, andGary Bell, eds., Manual of Forensic Odonotology, 3d ed., American Society of Forensic Odontology, 1995.b 3M=third molar; 2M=second molar; 1M=first molar; 2P=second premolar; 1P=first premolar; C=cuspid; I2=second incisor (lateral incisor),I1=first incisor (central incisor)Exhibit F–3. Dental Nomenclature Conversion Table: Permanent Teeth—Lower (Revised) aPermanent Lower right Lower leftSystem/tooth b 3M 2M 1M 2P 1P C I2 I1 I1 I2 C 1P 2P 1M 2M 3MOther LR8 LR7 LR6 LR5 LR4 LR3 LR2 LR1 LL1 LL2 LI3 LL4 LL5 LL6 LL7 LL8Hareup 8­ 7­ 6­ 5­ 4­ 3­ 2­ 1- -1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8Palmer 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Universal 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17FDI 48 47 46 45 44 43 42 41 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38Bosworth H G F E D C B A A B C D E F G HLowlands M3 M2 M1 P2 P1 C I2 I1 I1 I2 C P1 P2 M1 M2 M3Europe d8 d7 d6 d5 d4 d3 d2 d1 g1 g2 g3 g4 g5 g6 g7 g8Holland diM3 diM2 diM1 diP2 diP1 diC diI2 diI1 giI1 giI2 giC giP1 giP2 giM1 giM2 giM3FDI Modified 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48Other 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17a Compiled by Robert Dorion, D.D.S., Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Odontology. Reprinted from Bowers, C. Michael, andGary Bell, eds., Manual of Forensic Odonotology, 3d ed., American Society of Forensic Odontology, 1995.b 3M=third molar; 2M=second molar; 1M=first molar; 2P=second premolar; 1P=first premolar; C=cuspid; I2=second incisor (lateral incisor),I1=first incisor (central incisor)68

Appendix G. Sample Remains ReleaseAuthorization FormRelease AuthorizationName of Deceased: ____________________________________________________________Please be advised that identified human tissue will be buried in an appropriate manner.In the event any additional tissue(s) are recovered in the future and are identified asbelonging to the above named deceased, I/WE request the following (please check ONEof the boxes below):❑ I/WE do not wish to be notified. I/WE are authorizing the appropriate administrator(s)to dispose of said tissue(s) by methods deemed appropriate by said administrator(s).❑ I/WE wish to be notified and will make a decision regarding disposition at that time.I/WE the undersigned hereby authorize ____________________________ to release the(Name of Medical Examiner/Coroner)remains of ______________________ to the designated Disaster Mortuary Operational(Name of Deceased)Response Team (DMORT).I/WE further authorize the designated DMORT to embalm, perform postmortem reconstructivesurgery techniques, and otherwise prepare the remains as they deem necessary,and on completion to release the remains to______________________________________________________________________________(Name, Address, and Phone No. of Funeral Home/Agent).I/WE certify that I/WE have read and understand this RELEASE AUTHORIZATION. I/WEfurther state I/WE are all of the next of kin or represent all of the next of kin and am/arelegally authorized and/or charged with the responsibility of burial and/or final dispositionof above said deceased.Signed ___________________________ Relationship to Deceased _____________________Print Name __________________________ Date Signed ______________ Time ___________Complete Address _____________________________________________________________Telephone Number _____________________________________________________________Signed ___________________________ Relationship to Deceased _____________________Print Name __________________________ Date Signed ______________ Time ___________Complete Address ______________________________________________________________Telephone Number _____________________________________________________________Witness ______________________________________________________________________Print Witness Name ____________________________________________________________69

List of ReviewersAcademy of General DentistryAcademy of Radiology ResearchAir National Guard Readiness Center(Andrews AFB, Maryland)Alabama Emergency Management AgencyAlaska Dental SocietyAlaska Division of Emergency ServicesAmerican Academy of Experts in TraumaticStressAmerican Academy of ForensicPsychologyAmerican Academy of Forensic SciencesAmerican Academy of Oral andMaxillofacial PathologyAmerican Association of Dental ExaminersAmerican Association of Oral andMaxillofacial SurgeonsAmerican Bar AssociationAmerican Board of CriminalisticsAmerican Board of Emergency MedicineAmerican Board of Examiners in CrisisInterventionAmerican Board of Forensic AnthropologyAmerican Board of Forensic ToxicologyAmerican Board of Medical SpecialtiesAmerican Board of Medicolegal DeathInvestigatorsAmerican Board of Nuclear MedicineAmerican Board of Oral and MaxillofacialRadiologyAmerican Board of PathologyAmerican Board of RadiologyAmerican College of EmergencyPhysiciansAmerican College of Forensic ExaminersAmerican College of RadiologyAmerican Dental AssociationAmerican Medical AssociationAmerican Society of Crime LaboratoryDirectorsAmerican Society of Forensic OdontologyAmerican Society of Law EnforcementTrainersArapahoe County Sheriff’s Office (Littleton,Colorado)Arizona Department of Health Services,Bureau of State Lab ServicesArizona Department of Public SafetyArizona Division of EmergencyManagementArkansas Department of EmergencyManagementArlington County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia)Arlington Professional Firefighters andParamedics Association (Virginia)Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)AFIP, Department of Oral and MaxillofacialPathology71

SPECIAL REPORT /JUNE 05AFIP, Office of the Armed Forces MedicalExaminer (OAFME)AFIP, OAFME, Department of DefenseDNA RegistryAFIP, OAFME, Department of LegalMedicineArmed Forces Radiobiology ResearchInstituteArmy National Guard Readiness Center(Arlington, Virginia)Association of Federal Defense AttorneysAssociation of Forensic DNA Analysts andAdministratorsBaptist Hospital East, RadiationDepartment (Louisville, Kentucky)Bexar County Forensic Science Center(San Antonio, Texas)Bode Technology Group, Inc.Broward County Sheriff’s Office (FortLauderdale, Florida)Bureau of Legal Dentistry (Vancouver,British Columbia)C.A. Pound Human Identification Lab,University of FloridaCalifornia Criminalistics InstituteCalifornia Dental AssociationCalifornia Department of Justice, Bureauof Forensic ServicesCalifornia Department of Justice, DNALaboratoryCalifornia State University, Center forHazards ResearchCalifornia State University, Department ofAnthropologyCamden Police Department (Delaware)Canadian Centre for EmergencyPreparednessCanadian Society of Forensic ScienceCarnegie Mellon UniversityCelera GenomicsCenters for Disease Control andPreventionCity of Boston Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer (Massachusetts)City of Casselberry Police Department(Florida)City of Cleveland Heights PoliceDepartment (Ohio)City of Detroit Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer (Michigan)City of Honolulu Department of theMedical Examiner (Hawaii)City of New York Office of the ChiefMedical Examiner (New York)City of Richmond Office of the ChiefMedical Examiner (Virginia)City of San Diego Office of the MedicalExaminer (California)College of American PathologistsCollege of Mount St. Joseph, Departmentof BiologyColorado Bureau of InvestigationColorado College, Department ofAnthropologyColorado Dental AssociationColorado Emergency ManagementAssociation72

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONColorado Office of EmergencyManagementColorado State UniversityCommission of Accreditation for LawEnforcement AgenciesConnecticut Department of Public SafetyConnecticut Office of EmergencyManagementConnecticut State Dental AssociationConnecticut State Police ForensicLaboratoryCook County Hospital, RadiologyDepartment (Chicago, Illinois)Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office(Chicago, Illinois)Cook County Public Defender’s Office(Chicago, Illinois)Council of State GovernmentsDelaware Department of Public SafetyDelaware Emergency ManagementAgencyDelaware Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer (Wilmington, Delaware)Department of the Army, United StatesArmy Criminal Investigation LaboratoryDisaster Recovery Institute International(Falls Church, Virginia)Disaster Research Center (Newark,Delaware)District of Columbia EmergencyManagement AgencyDover Air Force Base (Dover, Delaware)Dupage County Coroner’s Office (ParkRidge, Illinois)Emergency Response and ResearchInstituteFederal Aviation AdministrationFederal Bureau of InvestigationFederal Emergency Management AgencyFederal Law Enforcement Training CenterFirst Special Response Group (MoffettField, California)Florida City and County ManagementAssociationFlorida Dental AssociationFlorida Department of Law EnforcementFlorida Division of EmergencyManagementFlorida Highway PatrolFlorida Society of Oral and MaxillofacialSurgeonsForensic Association of Philadelphia(Pennsylvania)Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Center(Atlanta, Georgia)Georgia Bureau of InvestigationGeorgia Emergency Management AgencyHawaii State Voluntary OrganizationsActive in DisasterIdaho Bureau of Disaster ServicesIllinois Emergency Management AgencyIllinois State Police, Division of ForensicScienceIndiana Coroners Association73

SPECIAL REPORT /JUNE 05Indiana State Emergency ManagementAgencyIndiana State PoliceIndiana University Medical CenterIndiana University School of DentistryInstitute for Law and Justice (Alexandria,Virginia)International Association for IdentificationInternational Association for Identification,Arizona DivisionInternational Association for Identification,Chesapeake Bay DivisionInternational Association for Identification,Florida DivisionInternational Association for Identification,Georgia DivisionInternational Association for Identification,Illinois DivisionInternational Association for Identification,Iowa DivisionInternational Association for Identification,New Jersey DivisionInternational Association of Chiefs ofPoliceInternational Association of EmergencyManagersInternational Association of Fire ChiefsInternational City/County ManagersAssociationInternational Commission on MissingPersons (Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina)International Critical Incident StressFoundationInternational Police Criminal Organization(Lyon, France)International/American Association forDental ResearchIowa Emergency Management DivisionIowa State Office of the MedicalExaminer, Iowa Department of PublicHealthJefferson County Sheriff’s Office (Golden,Colorado)Kansas Division of EmergencyManagementKansas Voluntary Organizations Active inDisastersKentucky Division of EmergencyManagementKentucky Voluntary Organizations Active inDisastersKenyon International EmergencyServices, Inc.Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office(California)Louisiana Dental AssociationLouisiana Office of EmergencyPreparednessLouisiana State Coroners AssociationLouisiana State University School ofDentistryLucas County Coroner’s Office (Toledo,Ohio)Maine Department of Defense, Veterans,and Emergency ManagementMarshall University, Forensic ScienceCenter74

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONMaryland Emergency ManagementAgencyMaryland State Dental AssociationMaryland Voluntary Organizations Active inDisastersMassachusetts Dental SocietyMassachusetts Emergency ManagementAgencyMassachusetts Executive Office of PublicSafetyMassachusetts State PoliceMassachusetts State Police CrimeLaboratoryMedical College of VirginiaMercyhurst Archaeological Institute,Mercyhurst CollegeMiami-Dade County Fire RescueDepartment (Miami, Florida)Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’sOffice (Miami, Florida)Miami-Dade County Police Department,Crime Laboratory Bureau (Miami,Florida)Miami-Dade County Police Department,Criminal Investigations Division (Miami,Florida)Miami-Dade County VoluntaryOrganizations Active in DisastersMichigan State University, Department ofAnthropologyMid-Atlantic Association of ForensicScientistsMidwestern Association of ForensicScientistsMilwaukee County Medical Examiner’sOffice (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)Minnesota Department of Public SafetyMinnesota Division of EmergencyManagementMinnesota Voluntary Organizations Activein DisastersMississippi Crime LaboratoryMississippi Emergency ManagementAgencyMissouri State Emergency ManagementAgencyMontana Disaster and EmergencyServicesMyriad Genetics, Inc.National Association of CountiesNational Association of Criminal DefenseLawyersNational Association of Medical ExaminersNational Association of PoliceOrganizationsNational Center for Forensic ScienceNational Center for Post Traumatic StressDisordersNational Disaster Medical SystemNational District Attorneys AssociationNational DNA Data Bank of CanadaNational Emergency ManagementAssociationNational Emergency Response TeamNational Forensic Science TechnologyCenter75

SPECIAL REPORT /JUNE 05National Governors AssociationNational Guard BureauNational Institute for Urban Search andRescue (Santa Barbara, California)National Institute of Dental andCraniofacial ResearchNational Institutes of HealthNational Law Enforcement CouncilNational League of CitiesNational Legal Aid and DefenderAssociationNational Museum of Health and MedicineNational Search and Rescue School(Yorktown, Virginia)National Sheriffs’ AssociationNational Transportation Safety BoardNational Transportation Safety Board,Office of Family AffairsNational Voluntary Organizations Active inDisasterNatural Hazards Center (Boulder, Colorado)Naval Dental Research Institute (GreatLakes, Illinois)Nevada Division of EmergencyManagementNew Jersey Dental AssociationNew Jersey Department of Law andPublic SafetyNew Jersey State PoliceNew Mexico Emergency ManagementBureauNew York City Voluntary OrganizationsActive in DisasterNew York State Division of Criminal JusticeServicesNew York State Emergency ManagementOfficeNew York State Police Crime LaboratoryNew York State Voluntary OrganizationsActive in DisastersNorth Carolina Dental SocietyNorth Carolina Department of CrimeControl and Public SafetyNorth Carolina Division of EmergencyManagementNorth Carolina Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)North Carolina State Board of DentalExaminersNorth Dakota Emergency ManagementNortheastern Association of ForensicScientistsOccupational Safety and HealthAdministration, U.S. Department ofLaborOffice of Critical Infrastructure Protectionand Emergency Preparedness (Ontario,Canada)Office of Emergency Preparedness, U.S.Department of Health and HumanServicesOhio Dental AssociationOhio Department of Public SafetyOhio State Coroners AssociationNew York City Police Department76

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONOklahoma Department of Civil EmergencyManagementOklahoma State Office of the ChiefMedical ExaminerOklahoma Voluntary Organizations Activein DisastersOnondaga County Center for ForensicSciences (Syracuse, New York)Orange County Fire and RescueDepartment (Winter Park, Florida)Oregon Emergency ManagementOregon State Police, Medical ExaminersDivisionPennsylvania Dental AssociationPennsylvania Emergency ManagementAgency Eastern, Central, and WesternRegion OfficesPennsylvania Voluntary OrganizationsActive in DisastersProvince of Alberta Office of the ChiefExaminer (Edmonton, Canada)Province of Ontario Chief Coroner’s Office(Toronto, Canada)Province of Ontario Dental IdentificationTeam (Canada)Pulaski County Coroner’s Office (LittleRock, Arkansas)Rhode Island Dental AssociationRhode Island Emergency ManagementAgencyRhode Island Office of the Chief MedicalExaminerRoyal Canadian Mounted PoliceRPI/Titan CorporationSaint Louis University School of MedicineSandia National LaboratoriesSearch and Rescue Council of New JerseySimon Fraser University, Department ofArchaeologySmithsonian Institution Department ofAnthropology, National Museum ofNatural HistorySociety of Forensic ToxicologistsSociety of Nuclear MedicineSociety of Skeletal RadiologySouth Carolina Emergency ManagementDivisionSouth Dakota Division of EmergencyManagementSouthern Association of ForensicScientistsSouthern California Association ofFingerprint OfficersSouthern Institute for Forensic ScienceSouthwest Texas State University,Department of AnthropologySouthwestern Association of ForensicScientistsSt. Louis County Medical Examiner’sOffice (St. Louis, Missouri)Suffolk County Crime Laboratory(Hauppauge, New York)Suffolk County Dental Society (New York)Suffolk County Fire, Rescue, andEmergency Services (New York)Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office(Hauppauge, New York)77

SPECIAL REPORT /JUNE 05Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office(Fort Worth, Texas)Tennessee Emergency ManagementAgencyTexas Department of Public SafetyTransportation Safety Board of CanadaTulsa Police Department (Tulsa, Oklahoma)U.S. Air Force Dental Investigation ServiceU.S. Air Force Rescue Coordination CenterU.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory(Hickam AFB, Hawaii) [now JointPOW/MIA Accounting Command]U.S. Conference of MayorsU.S. Department of TransportationU.S. Environmental Protection AgencyUniversity of California (Los Angeles),Center for Public Health and DisastersUniversity of California (Santa Cruz)University of Central Florida, Departmentof ChemistryUniversity of Central Florida, Institute forSimulation and TrainingUniversity of Colorado School of DentistryUniversity of Detroit, Mercy Institute forAdvanced Continuing Dental EducationUniversity of Hawaii, Department ofAnthropologyUniversity of Illinois, AnthropologyDepartmentUniversity of Indianapolis, BiologyDepartmentUniversity of New Mexico, Department ofAnthropologyUniversity of New Mexico School ofMedicineUniversity of North Carolina, Departmentof Sociology/AnthropologyUniversity of North Dakota, Department ofAnthropologyUniversity of North Florida, Institute ofPolice Technology and ManagementUniversity of North Texas, Laboratory ofForensic Anthropology and HumanIdentificationUniversity of North Texas Police AcademyUniversity of South Alabama MedicalCenter, Department of RadiologyUniversity of South Carolina, Departmentof AnthropologyUniversity of Tennessee, Department ofAnthropologyUniversity of Toronto, ForensicScience/Forensic AnthropologyUniversity of Washington, RadiologyDepartmentUniversity of Wyoming, Department ofAnthropologyUtah Department of Public SafetyVentura County Coroner’s Office(California)Ventura County Sheriff’s Office ofEmergency Services (California)Vermont Emergency ManagementVermont Forensic LaboratoryVictorian Institute of Forensic Medicine(Australia)Virginia Dental Association78

MASS FATALITY INCIDENTS: A GUIDE FOR HUMAN FORENSIC IDENTIFICATIONVirginia Department of EmergencyManagementVirginia Institute of Forensic Science andMedicineVirginia Voluntary Organizations Active inDisastersVolusia County Fire Services (Deland,Florida)Wake County District Attorney’s Office(Raleigh, North Carolina)Washington Voluntary Organizations Activein DisastersWashoe County Sheriff’s Office (Reno,Nevada)Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office(Detroit, Michigan)West Virginia Office of EmergencyServicesWest Virginia Office of the Chief MedicalExaminer Office (South Charleston,West Virginia)West Virginia University, ForensicIdentification ProgramWestern Michigan University, Departmentof AnthropologyWisconsin Association for IdentificationWisconsin Emergency ManagementWisconsin State Historical SocietyWyoming Emergency ManagementAgency79

About the National Institute of JusticeNIJ is the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice.The Institute provides objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to enhancethe administration of justice and public safety. NIJ’s principal authorities are derived from theOmnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, as amended (see 42 U.S.C. §§ 3721–3723).The NIJ Director is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The Director establishesthe Institute’s objectives, guided by the priorities of the Office of Justice Programs, theU.S. Department of Justice, and the needs of the field. The Institute actively solicits the views ofcriminal justice and other professionals and researchers to inform its search for the knowledgeand tools to guide policy and practice.Strategic GoalsNIJ has seven strategic goals grouped into three categories:Creating relevant knowledge and tools1. Partner with State and local practitioners and policymakers to identify social science researchand technology needs.2. Create scientific, relevant, and reliable knowledge—with a particular emphasis on terrorism,violent crime, drugs and crime, cost-effectiveness, and community-based efforts—to enhancethe administration of justice and public safety.3. Develop affordable and effective tools and technologies to enhance the administration ofjustice and public safety.To find out more about the NationalInstitute of Justice, please visit:http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nijor contact:National Criminal JusticeReference ServiceP.O. Box 6000Rockville, MD 20849–6000800–851–3420e-mail: askncjrs@ncjrs.orgDissemination4. Disseminate relevant knowledge and information to practitioners and policymakers in anunderstandable, timely, and concise manner.5. Act as an honest broker to identify the information, tools, and technologies that respond tothe needs of stakeholders.Agency management6. Practice fairness and openness in the research and development process.7. Ensure professionalism, excellence, accountability, cost-effectiveness, and integrity in themanagement and conduct of NIJ activities and programs.Program AreasIn addressing these strategic challenges, the Institute is involved in the following program areas:crime control and prevention, including policing; drugs and crime; justice systems and offenderbehavior, including corrections; violence and victimization; communications and informationtechnologies; critical incident response; investigative and forensic sciences, including DNA; lessthan-lethaltechnologies; officer protection; education and training technologies; testing andstandards; technology assistance to law enforcement and corrections agencies; field testing ofpromising programs; and international crime control.In addition to sponsoring research and development and technology assistance, NIJ evaluatesprograms, policies, and technologies. NIJ communicates its research and evaluation findingsthrough conferences and print and electronic media.

U.S. Department of JusticeOffice of Justice ProgramsNational Institute of JusticeWashington, DC 20531Official BusinessPenalty for Private Use $300*NCJ~199758*PRESORTED STANDARDPOSTAGE & FEES PAIDDOJ/NIJPERMIT NO. G–91JUNE 05MAILING LABEL AREA (5” x 2”)DO NOT PRINT THIS AREA(INK NOR VARNISH)NCJ 199758