ABSTRACT
Evaluating a fatal drowning event is often regarded as one of the most difficult challenges among forensic experts. Becker states that one myth about drowning is that they are presumed to be accidental. Based on his experience, this is often not the case. Many drownings are not accidental but in fact are involved in a homicide. Complicating the reliability of forensic findings is how a body is recovered. Unless recovered by using properly established search-and-recovery methods, critical evidence may be lost. What makes evidence recovery problematic relates to the fact that aquatic environments are constantly changing. Various search patterns must be considered based on some of the physical factors encountered and the area to be searched. Large search areas versus small areas dictate different search patterns and methods. Several other forensic methods are used to evaluate a drowning. Large amounts of froth present around victims' mouths and nostrils is usually an indicator of a drowning event.
