How to Identify an Unidentified Body
Natural disasters leave behind many victims. The number of bodies needing to be identified grows, even as experts work feverishly to identify remains. DNA is not always available and belongings are usually completely destroyed. Thankfully, natural disasters are more rare than not. Typically, the unidentified dead have been victims of crime, and there are several ways in which they can be identified.
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Instructions
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Contact a forensic dentist. Forensic dentists identify deceased individuals from comparisons with dental records. If dental records aren't available, they can assess the approximate age of the person and, possibly, whether violence was involved. An expert in forensic dentistry can be located through the American Board of Forensic Odontology.
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Acquire the fingerprints of the deceased. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, "Fingerprints offer an infallible means of personal identification." Fingerprints can be compared and matched to an existing record in the Automated Fingerprint Indentification System. If the person was ever arrested or had fingerprints taken as a child, her prints will be in the system.
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Acquire the DNA profile of the deceased. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the molecule that carries genetic information. A DNA profile is obtained by securing a sample of the deceased's saliva, blood or mucosa. Almost any kind of biological specimen can be used for the test. Similar to fingerprints, the DNA profile is submitted and then matched through the FBI's Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). DNA can also be obtained from family members and compared to the decedent's DNA profile.
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View the body. Relatives, usually immediate family members, can view the body at the coroner's office and identify the deceased.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for identifying documents on the deceased person or, if available, in personal belongings. This could be a driver's license, passport, green card or state ID. Birthmarks and tattoos can also be used to help with identification.
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