Introduction to Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation

Rigor Mortis

Muscle stiffness occurring 2-6 hours post-mortem.

Livor Mortis

Blood pooling appearing 30 mins to 2 hours.

Algor Mortis

Body cooling at ~1.5°F per hour.

Eye Condition

Cloudiness indicates death occurred over 3 hours prior.

Pale Skin

Indicates blood loss or anemia.

Blue Lips

Suggests cyanosis or lack of oxygen.

Bruising on Neck

May indicate strangulation.

Foam in Mouth

Indicates drowning or drug overdose.

Petechial Hemorrhages

Signs of asphyxiation.

Skull Fractures

Indicate blunt force trauma in head examination.

Fractured Ribs

Suggest trauma from assault or CPR.

Coronary Artery Blockage

Can lead to heart attack.

Undigested Food

Indicates death shortly after eating.

Toxicology Analysis

Determines lethal drug levels in the body.

Cocaine Effects

Increased heart rate, lethal level >0.3 µg/mL.

Morphine Effects

Respiratory depression, lethal level >1.5 mg/mL.

Alcohol Effects

CNS depression, lethal level >0.35% BAC.

Natural Causes

Death from disease or internal malfunction.

Blunt Force Trauma

Results in skull fractures and extensive bruising.

Penetrating Trauma

Indicated by stab or gunshot wounds.

Drug Overdose

High levels of narcotics in the system.

Hypothermia

Dangerously low body temperature indicators.

Manner of Death

Classification of death: natural, accidental, suicidal, homicidal.

Stomach Contents

Indicates time since last meal, 2-6 hours.