Mass Fatality Incidents: A Guide for Forensic Identification

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