Finding a missing person is not easy, even in this technological era. In fact, whenever a person goes missing, every minute matters, whether the case involves a missing child, an elderly person, an accidental victim, or someone who has disappeared without a trace under mysterious circumstances.
Unlike traditional police investigations that involve statements from witnesses and CCTV footage, phone records and search operations remain significant.
Forensic science is a mix of biology, chemistry, anthropology, digital investigation, and other scientific disciplines used to examine evidence that is often overlooked. Evidence examination can be done through various methods like analysis of DNA, fingerprints, dental records, skeletal remains, and so on.
Forensic science techniques to locate missing persons
1. DNA profiling and identification
When it comes to missing person cases, one of the best forensic techniques which strikes the mind first is none other than DNA analysis. Almost every individual has a unique DNA profile; this makes genetic evidence an extremely valuable asset in an investigation.
An individual's DNA can be obtained from a variety of sources such as razors, hairbrushes, clothing, or other items used by the missing person. Relatives can also be the source of reference biological samples. During the discovery of unidentified remains, forensic laboratories can compare DNA profiles from the remains with reference samples from family members or personal belongings.
For example, when a person's body is damaged, decomposed, burned, or beyond the possibility of visual identification, DNA analysis becomes highly important for establishing the identity of a person. The only condition is that DNA evidence is properly collected, preserved, analyzed, and interpreted to maintain its reliability.
2. Fingerprint examination
It is another valuable technique of identification: comparison of fingerprints recovered by investigators from personal belongings, locations, vehicles, or other objects with available records.
During the successful discovery of unidentified remains, if the fingerprints are preserved sufficiently, forensic experts might compare them with fingerprint databases or existing records. This type of evidence also helps investigators find out whether or not the missing person visited a particular location.
3. Forensic anthropology or skeletal remains
Whenever there is a case of unidentified human remains, forensic anthropology steps in to determine the identity of the person. Forensic anthropologists examine bones to estimate characteristics like age, biological sex, stature, and certain individual features, so that investigators can compare these findings with missing-person records.
Previous injuries, fractures, surgical procedures, or other distinctive characteristics can also be revealed by the skeletal remains. Information obtained from skeletal remains can be compared with medical records or information provided by the family of the missing person. This method of identification becomes extremely crucial if the remains of the person have been buried, decomposed, or exposed to environmental conditions for an extended period.
4. Forensic odontology
Dental records are also considered one of the reliable methods of identification. Teeth and dental structures are relatively resistant to decomposition and environmental damage. The major responsibility of forensic odontologists is to conduct an examination of dental remains and compare them with previous records, including X-rays, treatment histories, fillings, crowns, missing teeth, and other distinctive features.
Having access to the missing person's dental records allows investigators to do a comparison with unidentified remains, which can sometimes offer strong evidence of identity.
5. Forensic imaging and facial reconstruction
There are cases where, during the discovery of unidentified remains, forensic imaging and facial reconstruction can help in getting a clear picture regarding what an individual may look like.
To create the facial approximation, experts use information obtained from the skull and other evidence. This information can be shared with investigators and disclosed to the public in order to get recognition and investigative leads.
Modern technologies like digital imaging and 3D modelling can make these reconstructions more sophisticated. However, facial reconstruction is only an investigative aid instead of confirmed identity proof. Confirmation can only be done with the support of strong evidence like DNA, fingerprints, and dental comparison.
6. Forensic toxicology
If in the missing person case there is a possibility of drugs, alcohol, medications, and toxic substances being involved in the disappearance of a person, then investigators take action. When unidentified remains are discovered, conducting toxicology tests can reveal whether any toxicological or poisonous substances are present in the body, helping the investigators grasp the circumstances surrounding the person's death.
Toxicology may become relevant the moment a missing person is located alive but unable to explain their circumstances due to suspected intoxication or substance exposure.
7. Digital forensics and missing person investigations
Modern missing persons investigations also involve digital evidence like smartphones, computers, GPS, cloud accounts, and other digital devices that contain valuable clues.
Digital forensic specialists conduct device examinations and legally obtain data to establish timelines, identify communications, determine locations, and understand a person's activities before their disappearance.
Conclusion
By using the above-mentioned forensic science techniques, investigators can even solve cases that have been lying cold for several years. Forensic science has the ability to turn seemingly insignificant clues into scientifically utilized evidence. In forensics, a strand of hair, a fingerprint, a dental record, a digital location, or a fragment of biological material is enough to provide a strong clue or connection.
Hence, if you are interested in forensic science and want to pursue a career in it, then make sure to check out Lloyd Institute of Forensic Science, one of the best forensic science colleges in Greater Noida. This premier institute offers courses in all three: bachelor's, master's, and diploma certificates.