Original Research Papers · Research Paper P2

Bloodstain Pattern Analysis in Snow – Examination of Bloodstain Patterns in Icy and Soft Powder Snow Conditions

J David North

Forensic Science Seminar · 2015 · Volume 5 · Issue 3 · pp. 108–112

Original Abstract

Abstract

Blood shedding events occurring in snowy conditions are conceivable and potentially likely in alpine environments. An examination of the current literature indicates there is limited information on the topic of bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) in snow or icy conditions. The aim of this study was to replicate classic bloodstain patterns including drip and spatter stains, to record observations to increase knowledge in the discipline. Due to the weather conditions during this study, the “hardness” of snow had an effect on reproducing bloodstains patterns consistently. Reproducible bloodstain patterns were produced in powder snow and icy snow, indicating the potential for investigators to reconstruct and understand the bloodshed events associated with a crime scene. Hence, the bloodstain analyst working in areas where snowfall is likely should develop an understanding of how blood will react with snow.

Keywords: BPA; Bloodstain pattern anlaysis; Snow; Ice; Forensic science

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