NCJ Number
145902
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 38 Issue: 6 Dated: (November 1993) Pages: 1372-1382
Date Published
1993
Length
11 pages
Annotation
The murder case profiled in this paper shows the value of the observations of a physical anthropologist at the site of skeletal remains in determining victim identity.
Abstract
In this case, the perpetrators attempted to mislead the investigators. The physical anthropologist on the team, however, discovered the deception. The case involved the identification of two U.S. journalists who disappeared in Guatemala in March 1985. The perpetrators attempted to cremate the bodies, but the investigators found bone fragments and teeth at the cremation site. This physical evidence permitted identification of the victims. For one victim, the unusual morphology of the frontal sinus made positive identification possible. Comparison of premortem dental X-rays with teeth found at the murder site resulted in a positive identification of the second victim. This case shows that even in instances of extreme fragmentation and calcination of bone, positive identification can be achieved. It also shows the benefits of interdisciplinary cooperation, which in this instance included the FBI Laboratory and the Smithsonian Conservation Analytical Laboratory, both of which participated in the analysis of metallic objects from the site. Particularly, the case illustrates the value of comparative collections in providing basic population data. Generally, the case proves the value of having a trained physical/forensic anthropologist in the field to participate in the recovery of remains. 5 figures, 1 table, and 6 references