dental identification in multiple Fatality incidents 253
ensue. Some computer systems use the numbering system for unique identi-
fication within a particular software application, and in addition might use
the number to connect or bridge to another software program to accomplish
a different task. These types of systems do not allow quick and easy updates of
initial numbering systems. In fact, it could require many hours of work and
coordination to establish a new numbering system. Therefore, establish the
exact numbering system before operations begin and stick with it.
Most MFI responses are represented by several specialty sections.^4 The
anthropology section is concerned with skeletal identifiers and is very impor-
tant in sex and age determination of unidentified victims. They are also
very active in reassociating fragmented and comingled body parts. Forensic
anthropologists who have a doctorate degree and are board certified by the
American Board of Forensic Anthropology should be used if available. The
dental section is responsible for antemortem and postmortem dental records,
the dental postmortem examination, and the comparison of dental records
for identification. The dental section will be explained more fully later in this
chapter. The DNA section collects samples from the unidentified victims and
stores then transfers them for sequencing to a certified DNA laboratory. Most
DNA laboratories will send their own employees experienced in sampling to
staff or augment this station. The DNA section is also responsible for collect-
ing and analyzing samples collected that relate to missing persons and their
family members. The fingerprint section retrieves all fingerprint information
from the victims. This section is also charged with obtaining latent prints
from missing persons’ premises that may lead to identification of missing
persons with no antemortem fingerprint records. This section is staffed with
experienced fingerprint experts from local, state, or federal agencies. The
personal effects section is usually the first physical station in the morgue
area. Personal effects collects those items associated with each victim, docu-
ments and stores those items, and prepares them for return to the families
of the victims. This section usually confirms proper numbering of victims
and begins the sequential processing of the morgue operation. The forensic
pathology section is usually headed by the medical examiner in charge of
the morgue. This section provides the forensic pathology examinations and
autopsy services. The radiology section provides medical radiographic docu-
mentation for each unidentified victim. They may then compare antemortem
radiographs from missing persons to those of unknown victims for identifi-
cation. Other sections may be added or any of the sections listed above can be
modified, expanded, combined, or deleted to fit the needs of the operation.
The morgue sections are set up in such a manner as to allow easy flow
of the unidentified victims from station to station, along with all pertinent
records. A tracker is assigned to stay with each individual as he or she moves
from beginning to end through the morgue. The tracker ensures that all