Once forensic experts arrive on the scene, they will conduct their search with an archaeologist's precision. Each part of the human skeletonsome two hundred bones and thirty-two teethhas its tale to tell. A forensic team will begin by probing the grave, often with a metal rod, seeking to test its consistency and detect the smell of dead bodies. Once investigators have dug down to the level of bodies, they will sift the earth for shreds of evidence and dust off each body. Bodies are carefully examined before being removed.
Valuable evidence can include blindfolds, bullets, and bonds that indicate how a victim was killed.
Jewelry or papers help with identification. The science of determining the cause of death is complex. An expert examining a bullet wound can determine where a person was shot, the range of the shooting, and the angle at which the bullet enteredall clues to whether someone was executed or not. Identification is the next step. Experts rely on witnesses, who may know who is in which grave.