Unit 2: Fingerprints and Hair An arson investigation… Accident or Murder? An arson investigation… Forensics 2012-2013

Background – Floor Plan Front door Stairway Chair Piano Credenza Steamer trunk Couch Chest Antique Ice Box Decedent g d i b f c j a e h

Living Room, Couch, & Piano The Fire Marshal’s theory states the decedent fell into a drunken stupor on the couch with her cigarette falling into the couch and starting the fire. The “v pattern” above the couch substantiates the theory. Notice the radiate energy is not strong enough to catch other fuel loads such as the piano on fire. The staircase to the bedrooms is shown on the left side of the photo. The decedent is found on the opposite side of the room.

Door Jam opposite Ice Chest The Fire Marshal states the decedent came out of her stupor due to the excessive heat and smoke. She was unable to get her bearings and accidentally hit her head on the ice chest and the door jam. Her body was found next to the floor board heating unit shown in the photograph. This exit is on the opposite side of the living area from the staircase