DNA Identification in Mass Fatality Incidents

DNA analysis is the gold standard for identification of human remains from mass disasters. Particularly in the absence of traditional anthropological and other physical characteristics, forensic DNA typing allows for identification of any biological sample and the association of body parts, as long as sufficient DNA can be recovered from the samples. This is true even when the victim's remains are fragmented and the DNA is degraded.

The Medical Examiner's Role

After a mass fatality event, it is the job of the medical examiner to identify the victims so that death certificates can be issued. When DNA analysis is part of the identification process, the laboratory must ensure that:

• Victim, reference, and kinship samples are accessioned into the laboratory system and documented by proper chain of custody.
• DNA is extracted and genotyped, and that analysis of the genotype data, including matching and statistics, is performed.
• Samples are reaccessioned and accounted for, if they have been outsourced.
• Final administrative review—comparing the DNA results to non-DNA metadata—is conducted and, if necessary, reconciled. [Note: Metadata for a kinship sample, for example, include the kin's name, biological relationship to the victim, and when and where the sample was collected.]

Considerations Beyond Analysis

While many effective laboratory protocols are available for DNA analysis, the analytical portion is only one part of the identification process. Special attention is required for:

• Sample collection, preservation, shipping, and storage.
• Tracking and chain of custody issues.
• Clean, secure laboratory facilities.
• Quality assurance and quality control practices.
• Managing the work.
• DNA extraction and typing.
• Interpretation of results.
• Automation.
• Use of software for sample tracking and data management.
• Use of an advisory panel of experts.
• Public education and communication.
• Privacy issues.

Developing strategies that address these features of DNA identification will facilitate the identification process.