As many details as possible should be gathered about the murder scene before the investigators start their examination. Once more, it is advised to move slowly and methodically. In order to prevent the destruction of irreplaceable and/or delicate evidence, like traces and shoeprints, etc., information is acquired. A mental blueprint for why the murder scene will be examined is created after all the data has been gathered.
Every component of the investigation into the crime scene should be documented with several notes and pertinent dates. A walk through the area following the “trial” of the crime will typically be the first step in the assessment of the scene.
What is a trail?
The trail is the location where all of the seeming criminal activity occurred. Physical evidence typically serves as the trail’s identifier. The position of entry, the scene of the crime, any locations from which a culprit may very well have been kept clean, as well as the site of exit, could all be included.
If relevant evidence seems to be at risk of being lost, a walk-through could become less important in some circumstances. In those circumstances, it is important to collect and preserve this evidence as soon as you can.
What is the purpose of the walk-through?
The goal of a walk-through is to identify potential evidence locations and to mentally map out how the area will be investigated. The walk-through starts as near the entryway as is practical. Sometimes a walkthrough may require forensics scientists to work around an entire area code. The ground the investigators are about to step on should be the first thing the detectives investigate.
In the event that any evidence is found, a sign should be put up to act as a caution to anyone else not to trample on the object of interest.
What is a simple yet effective technique the forensics team uses?
Oblique lighting, commonly referred to as “side lighting,” is a useful approach for indoor use on hard surfaces. The only tool required is a decent flashlight with a potent focused beam. The room ought to be as dark as you can make it. Make sure to first dust the light switch for fingerprints if it needs to be switched off after a suspect could well have touched it. Blinds and shades should be closed until all general photos have been taken.
The flashlight is held approximately an inch from the ground while using the side lighting approach. The beam is then slanted such that it almost perfectly parallels the floor and just sweeps over it. After that, the light is moved back and forth. Any evidence will emerge significantly, including shoeprints and trace evidence. This evidence can be slightly discernible or entirely invisible under typical lighting conditions.
What simple rule must be followed?
The investigators should keep their hands busy as the walk-through goes on, either by carrying pens, flashlights, notebooks, etc. or by placing their hands in their pockets. This will stop unwanted fingerprints from being left behind at the scene.
Conclusion
Finally, the investigators should look at anything above their heads during the walk through tree branches, ceilings,, etc. Such important evidence as blood splatters and bullet holes may be found in these places. They are then taken to the lab for a forensics test. After the walk-through is finished, the scenario needs to be captured on film, in pictures, or in sketches.
