Modern investigators are frequently faced with the investigation of shooting incidents, some of which become controversial. Whether the incident is a criminal act, an act of self-defense, or the use of deadly force by law enforcement, the outcome of these investigations have far-reaching con-sequences. Investigators must effectively and accurately analyze these scenes so facts surrounding these incidents can be identified and accurately presented.

This comprehensive 5-day (40-hour) course, presented by veteran field investigators, is specifically designed for detectives, crime scene investigators, evidence technicians, and others involved in investigating shooting incidents. Validated methodologies are presented in lectures and practical exercises. Scenes will be analyzed to identify ballistic evidence, shooter and victim positions, sequence of events, and evidentiary relationships.

Classroom and firearms range instruction and practical exercises include:
• Firearms and ammunition design and function.
• Physics of projectile motion.
• Proper identification, documentation and organization of firearms-related evidence.
• Gunshot wound ballistics and interre-lationships of wounds and other evi-dence.
• Mathematics for trajectory analysis in crime scenes.
• Determining muzzle to target distances.
• Application of the scientific method to field analysis.
• Reconstructing the shooting event through recognizing and correlating evidentiary relationships between evidence in the scene, forensic analyses, and subject/witness statements.
*Trajectory analysis through rodding, laser, trigonometry and stringing.
*Demonstration and analysis of bullet interactions with various materials including glass, metal, concrete, wood, motor vehicles, bone and dirt. Commonly held perceptions will be challenged.

All main concepts are reinforced through hands-on practical exercises using case scenarios.
Includes exercises conducted at a shooting range.

Class Requirements:
Course is designed to develop knowledge and “hands-on” experience for shooting incident scene analysis. Prior investigative or crime scene experience is recommended.
Attendees should bring a camera for documenting evidence and an electronic device with USB connection, preferably a laptop computer, to access and save digital handouts, case materials, and fillable forms used in lecture and practical exercises.

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