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Bureau of Criminal Apprehension

Shooting scene reconstruction

Shooting incidents are dynamic and varied, as is the evidence produced during such an event. At shooting scenes, the crime scene team will identify, reconstruct and document projectile paths, called trajectories, based on impact marks including penetrating, perforating or non-penetrating points of impact. Reconstruction of a shooting incident relies on careful examination and processing of a scene for pertinent physical evidence including defects and holes caused by projectiles. Accurate reconstruction typically requires the identification and collection of associated evidence and its subsequent analysis in the Laboratory.

The examination of defects and holes caused by projectiles from firearms can provide information useful in the reconstruction of a shooting incident. Observations of impact sites can provide information about the projectile, the firearm, intermediate objects in the path of the projectile, direction of travel of the projectile, order of shots and other information. In some circumstances, the trajectory of the projectile may be determined and this can assist in determining possible positions from where a shot originated as well as locating additional items of forensic significance such as cartridge cases.

 

A 3D diagram of a shooting scene reconstruction
This image shows the approximation of two bullet trajectories using 3D diagramming equipment and software.  The bullets originated in the living area of a residence, where a grouping of cartridge cases were located. This set of trajectories indicates either two shooters or one shooter at two different positions. Forensic analysis of collected items may assist in providing additional shooting scene reconstruction conclusions.
A red laser showing the path a bullet may have taken
A red laser in a front entryway showing how a bullet may have traveled
These images show the approximation of a bullet trajectory using lasers. The bullet originated in the entry way of a residence. The bullet then impacted the stairwell wall.