Positive Identification of Cremains Recovered From an Automobile Based on Presence of an Internal Fixation Device

• NCJ Number: 183904
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 44 Issue: 6 Dated: November 1999 Pages: 1296-1298
• Author(s): Joanne L. Bennett M.A.; Derek C. Benedix M.A.
• Date Published: November 1999
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article reports on the detection of a surgically implanted device in an incinerated body, an EBI osteostimulator, as a means of identifying a homicide victim.

Abstract

Establishing the positive identification of a victim in cases that involve extensive thermal alteration of the body is often difficult, given the fragmentary condition of the remains and the fragile nature of the material that may prohibit the use of standard identification techniques. In situations that involve high levels of incineration, it is important to recover all material, including non-osseous matter. This may prove crucial in establishing identification, given that surgically implanted orthopedic devices and implanted dental structures are increasingly used in the medical and dental industries. This article reports on a recent case that resulted in the identification of a homicide victim based on the presence of an implanted skeletal device. On June 26, 1997, the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee was contacted regarding the discovery of incinerated human remains in a car consumed by fire. Initial examination indicated that the remains of one adult were contained in the trunk of the automobile. Recovery and excavation included removal of all identifiable bone and bone fragments and the screening of residual material. This procedure resulted in the discovery of a device that consisted of wires partially attached to several vertebrae; however, at the time of discovery, it was presumed high temperatures had caused fusion of the metal to the surface of the bone. Subsequently, the examination determined that this was a surgically implanted device, an osteostimulator, which is designed to provide a continuous electrical current to facilitate the regeneration of osseous tissue. The examination also determined that the body was that of a 35- to 45-year-old white female, characteristics consistent with the profile of a missing woman from the region. A review of the radiographic records of the missing woman by the orthopedic surgeon who implanted the device confirmed the identification of the body. 2 figures and 5 references