A Comparison of Event Analysis and Multilinear Events Sequencing Techniques for Reconstructing Unique Phenomena
Ross M. Gardner, MA, CSCSA
Abstract: Event Analysis is a specific crime scene analysis method in use today. Its purpose is to objectively define what happened in alleged criminal events and in what order it happened. This article compares Event Analysis methodology to the analysis method known as Multilinear Events Sequencing (MES). MES is an established methodology used by safety specialists, failure analysts, and other scientists to evaluate unique and rare events. This comparison will effectively demonstrate that the two methods are one and the same in theory, process, and purpose.
Can Accident Investigation Tools Help Crime Scene Reconstruction?
Ludwig Benner Jr., BChE, PE-Safety (Retired) and William D. Carey, BA
Abstract: The search for ways to improve present crime scene reconstruction practices is a continuing endeavor. Might the adaptation of tools used in the accident and incident investigation field be useful in that endeavor? That question was first addressed during the 2010 Association for Crime Scene Reconstruction Conference, at which some such tools were explored during an experimental demonstration. This article describes task similarities, and accident investigation concepts, principles and tools that might be adaptable to similar crime scene investigation and reconstruction tasks. Key candidates include viewing occurrences as processes, an iterative framework for investigations, and standardized input data structure.
PDF: Can Accident Investigation Tools Help Crime Scene Reconstruction?
Studying Fired Bullet Performance in a Unique Environment
Matthew Noedel, Noedel Scientific, Puyallup, WA
Abstract: Many studies have been conducted about the evaluation and reconstruction of fired bullet paths delivered in indoor scenes (1-4). Typically, the shooting environment for such training is achieved by the construction of temporary walls, artificial matrices, or other simulated surfaces so that shots of known origin can be safely delivered and the properties studied while on an active shooting range. During this study an abandoned and vacant structure, the University of Colorado Hospital building, was made available for delivering live shots within the office areas.
PDF: Studying Fired Bullet Performance in a Unique Environment
Using Security Camera Video in Accident Reconstruction
Detective Tilo Voitel, Denver Police Department, Traffic Investigations
Abstract: In November of 2006 a family with small children was crossing the street in downtown Denver when they were hit by a DUI driver that fled the scene. A license plate that was left behind led to the arrest of the driver and passenger a few hours after the collision. There were contrasting witness statements about what happened due to the traumatic nature of the event. Several video cameras in the area captured the event. The video recordings from those cameras were used in conjunction with a scale diagram and traffic engineering report to clarify the actual sequence of events as well as determining the vehicle’s speed. The author was involved in this investigation and discusses the methodology behind the speed determination as well as how he was able to determine the driver had a red light when the light was not visible in the video.