Individualised and non-contact post-mortem interval determination of human bodies using visible and thermal 3D imaging

Leah S. Wilk, Gerda J. Edelman, Martin Roos, Mara Clerkx, Inge Dijkman, Jordi Vera Melgar, Roelof-Jan Oostra and Maurice C. G. Aalders ()
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Leah S. Wilk: University of Amsterdam
Gerda J. Edelman: Netherlands Forensic Institute, Divisie Bijzondere Dienstverlening en Expertise
Martin Roos: Netherlands Forensic Institute, Divisie Bijzondere Dienstverlening en Expertise
Mara Clerkx: University of Amsterdam
Inge Dijkman: University of Amsterdam
Jordi Vera Melgar: University of Amsterdam
Roelof-Jan Oostra: University of Amsterdam
Maurice C. G. Aalders: University of Amsterdam

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Determining the time since death, i.e., post-mortem interval (PMI), often plays a key role in forensic investigations. The current standard PMI-estimation method empirically correlates rectal temperatures and PMIs, frequently necessitating subjective correction factors. To overcome this, we previously developed a thermodynamic finite-difference (TFD) algorithm, providing a rigorous method to simulate post-mortem temperatures of bodies assuming a straight posture. However, in forensic practice, bodies are often found in non-straight postures, potentially limiting applicability of this algorithm in these cases. Here, we develop an individualised approach, enabling PMI reconstruction for bodies in arbitrary postures, by combining photogrammetry and TFD modelling. Utilising thermal photogrammetry, this approach also represents the first non-contact method for PMI reconstruction. The performed lab and crime scene validations reveal PMI reconstruction accuracies of 0.26 h ± 1.38 h for true PMIs between 2 h and 35 h and total procedural durations of ~15 min. Together, these findings broaden the potential applicability of TFD-based PMI reconstruction.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26318-4

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