The significance of bloodstain pattern analysis in reconstructing a murder scene

Abstract

Murder is one of the most prevalent criminal acts in South Africa, and it has become a key focal point to the criminal justice system. It is, therefore, the responsibility of investigators that there is recourse for victims of murder by bringing suspects to justice. This can be achieved through exploring various forensic techniques in order to ensure that criminals are successfully identified. In an event where the crime scene involves the shedding of blood, it generally contains an abundance of information in the shape of bloodstain patterns, the scene and its cause. It is not mandatory for investigating officers to possess specialized skills in bloodstain pattern analysis, but it is essential for investigators to have analytical skills to enable them to identify whether there is a need to request the work of experts at the scene. The purpose of this research study is to explore the significance of bloodstain pattern analysis in reconstructing a murder scene at the Tembisa cluster. In order to ensure that an investigation is successful, it is important that the investigator bears the objectives of criminal investigation in mind. In the investigation of crime, the method that is applied by investigators to collect and document evidence, and to gather and package physical evidence plays an important role in crime investigation. It is essential that the investigator approach the crime scene with impartiality in order to link the evidence to the suspect. It is important for investigators to be familiar with the concept of bloodstain pattern analysis. The aim of this research study is to provide practical recommendations on the best practice for the use of bloodstain pattern analysis at a murder scene.