ABSTRACT
Evidence is the key to the successful defense, and prosecution, of all criminal and civil cases. When it comes to examining a death said to be caused by accidental circumstances, evidence, or the lack thereof, becomes even more important. An autopsy is the final determination of the manner of death that led to a drowning. However, it is important to understand and utilize all facts relevant to the demise of the victim even before they are examined. Symptoms such as hemorrhages, pulmonary edema, "washerwoman" appearance of the hands and feet, and goose flesh may indicate a drowning. However, heart attacks, drug overdoses, and other causes of death can also cause the same symptoms. In the identification and collection of evidence, a fish/aquatic feeding and the discovery of maggots on the body may be informative in evaluating a drowning case. If the body is exposed to air then flies may lay their eggs on the body.
