FAQ About Cold Cases and Breakthroughs

Identifying unidentified victims in cold cases can be a complex process that involves various investigative techniques and collaborations between law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and the public. Here are some common methods and approaches used to identify unidentified victims:

• Forensic Anthropology and Odontology: Forensic anthropologists and odontologists examine skeletal remains to determine various biological characteristics, such as age, sex, ancestry, stature, and any unique dental features. This information can be crucial in narrowing down potential matches and generating leads for further investigation.
• DNA Analysis: DNA analysis plays a vital role in identifying unidentified victims. DNA samples extracted from remains or personal belongings of the victim can be compared to databases, such as the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), missing persons databases, or familial DNA databases. Matches or familial relationships discovered through DNA analysis can provide crucial leads for identifying the victim and potentially locating their family members.
• Missing Persons Databases and Reports: Law enforcement agencies compare the characteristics of unidentified victims with records in missing persons databases, both at the national and international levels. They look for matches in terms of physical description, circumstances of disappearance, or any other relevant details that may help establish a connection between the unidentified victim and a missing person.
• Dental Records: Comparing dental records of unidentified victims with dental records of missing persons can help establish positive identifications. Dentists can provide X-rays, dental charts, or other documentation to assist in the comparison process.
• Facial Reconstruction: In cases where the victim's remains are in a state that allows for facial reconstruction, forensic artists use techniques such as clay reconstruction or digital facial approximation to create an image of the victim's face. These reconstructed images are publicized through media outlets and online platforms to generate leads and potentially identify the victim.
• Post-mortem Photography and Public Engagement: Sharing post-mortem photographs or artistic reconstructions of the victim's appearance with the public can sometimes lead to identification. Media campaigns, social media outreach, and public engagement can reach individuals who may recognize the victim or have information related to the case.
• Forensic Genealogy: In cases where other identification methods have been exhausted, investigators may employ forensic genealogy techniques. DNA samples from unidentified victims are compared to publicly available genetic databases, such as GEDmatch or other genealogical databases. By identifying potential relatives, investigators can construct family trees and work towards identifying the victim through familial DNA connections.
• Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Approaches: Identification efforts often involve collaborations between law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, forensic anthropologists, odontologists, DNA experts, and other specialists. Combining their expertise and sharing information can increase the chances of identifying unidentified victims.