ABSTRACT
In a death investigation, the default investigative direction is always homicide. The investigation may eventually lead to the conclusion that the death was natural, accidental, or suicidal. Homicide is an action or inaction that results in the death of another. Homicidal deaths may or may not be criminal. Homicide scenes are highly complex and require skilled care and methodical documentation and processing. There is no requirement to have a body removed immediately from a scene, and removal may be detrimental if it occurs before a scene is thoroughly examined for evidence and its relationship in the context of the scene. The medical examiner, coroner, or their representative may wish to be present at the scene during the processing of the body or to conduct an examination. In the case of homicide, the police investigator or detective should make the notification if there is an expectation of a spontaneous exclamation.
