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AI provides a more precise time of death

Researchers at Linköping University have developed an AI model that can accurately determine the time of death from blood samples, providing crucial information in murder investigations and police work. The method uses metabolites to analyze changes in small molecules over time, outperforming current methods.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Light-based insect analysis sharpens forensic timelines

Researchers developed a technique that uses infrared light and machine learning to determine the sex of blow fly larvae, improving time-of-death estimates. The method achieved over 90% accuracy and has potential applications in forensic entomology, agriculture, and biosecurity.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalJournal of Forensic Sciences·DateSep 6, 2025

Smoking leaves lasting mark on teeth, research reveals

Researchers from Northumbria University found that smokers have tell-tale signs of their smoking habits ingrained deep within their teeth. The study revealed evidence of smoking damage in 70% of ex-smokers and 33% of current smokers, compared to just 3% of non-smokers.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalPLOS One·DateJun 18, 2025

Study shows forensic evidence can survive underwater for weeks

A new study has found that forensic fibers can survive underwater for several weeks, contradicting previous beliefs. This discovery could significantly aid in investigations, as police may now be able to search for fibre evidence even after extended exposure times.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalForensic Science International·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Harnessing Thor’s Hammer -- How forensic science is unlocking the mysteries of fatal lightning strikes

Researchers developed a tool to investigate cause of death when skeletonised remains are recovered, providing a breakthrough in forensic lightning pathology. The study identified unique markers of lightning damage deep within the human skeleton, allowing for recognition of lightning strikes even when only dry bone survives.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalForensic Science International Synergy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2021

Deaths due to tainted herbal medicine under-recorded

A University of Adelaide forensic pathologist warns that harmful substances in herbal medicines might contribute to deaths of 'health tourists.' Closer post-mortem checks are needed to consider adulterants.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Forensic and Legal Medicine·DateOct 24, 2018

Gene expression patterns may help determine time of death

An international team of scientists developed models to predict post-mortem interval based on tissue-specific gene expression changes. Changes in gene expression can be used to determine the time of death with considerable accuracy, potentially aiding forensic analyses.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 13, 2018

BMC develops protocol for preserving forensic evidence after a terrorist attack

The BMC protocol provides a set of predetermined guidelines for processing and preserving forensic evidence in surgical specimens after a terrorist attack. Key findings include the importance of identifying a team to handle all surgical specimens, obtaining labeled photographs and x-rays, and storing forensic evidence securely.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateApr 21, 2015
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

New film footage reveals potential 'killer blow' to King Richard III

Researchers have discovered that three of King Richard III's injuries had the potential to cause death quickly, including two to the skull and one to the pelvis. The forensic analysis used modern techniques such as CT scans and micro-CT imaging to analyze trauma to the skeleton and determine which wounds might have proved fatal.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 12, 2015

New non-surgical autopsy technique set to revolutionize post-mortem practice

A new non-surgical post-mortem technique uses minimally invasive targeted coronary angiography to determine the cause of death in up to 80% of cases. The technique is inexpensive, easy to use, and applicable to natural and unnatural deaths, offering a potential permanent change in autopsy practice.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalInternational Journal of Legal Medicine·DateMar 1, 2011

The role of medical expert witnesses: the Goudge Inquiry

The Goudge Inquiry's analysis of pediatric forensic pathology highlights the importance of carefully controlling the use of expert witnesses. The report emphasizes the need for medical experts to provide fair, objective, and impartial testimony, regardless of their relationship with the court or party involved.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 21, 2009