Forensics: Crime Scene Detective — Ballistics Guide

Ballistics analysis in Forensics: Crime Scene Detective requires careful crime scene documentation followed by laboratory trajectory reconstruction. You must document bullet holes, remove projectiles, and use trajectory rods to determine shooting angles — helping distinguish murder from self-defense, accident, or staged scenes.

Crime Scene Documentation

1. Locate all bullet impact points on walls, furniture, and objects.
2. Place evidence markers at each bullet hole.
3. Photograph every impact point with marker visible.
4. Only after photography, remove embedded projectiles.
5. Collect projectiles in evidence containers for firearm comparison.

Trajectory Reconstruction

At the projectile recovery tank, insert trajectory rods through documented bullet holes. The convergence point of rods indicates the shooter's position. Compare this with witness statements and physical evidence to classify the shooting scenario.

Classifying Shooting Events

• Murder: Trajectory points to external shooter, multiple wounds, no defensive evidence.
• Self-defense: Trajectory from victim toward threat, close-range wounds.
• Accident: Single discharge, erratic path, witness corroboration.
• Staged: Rod angles inconsistent with body position or moved evidence.

Firearm Comparison

Collected projectiles can be compared against firearms at the ballistics workstation. Rifling marks on bullets link them to specific weapons. Combine ballistic results with fingerprint evidence on the weapon and DNA from blood spatter for comprehensive conclusions.