ABSTRACT
The investigation starts at the location where the body is found. The scene may include more than one location, such as where the body entered water, where the decedent’s personal effects were located, or where means of transportation was found. The practice of accepting witness and complainant accounts at face value prohibits any further inquiry. More documentation is usually done at the scene of a motor vehicle accident than that of a water-related death scene. Because the environment is constantly changing, it is imperative the investigator collect all available data while initially on the scene. For body photographs, take a photo of gross (overall) condition of the body, any external injuries, and injury patterns. The investigator should also try to photograph any sunken objects from surface, if water clarity and depth permit the taking of such a photograph. In cases of deeper water or poor water clarity, evidence can be marked utilizing floats and photographing the floats on the surface.
