Journal Published Online: 01 September 1996
Volume 41, Issue 5

Identification of War Victims from Mass Graves in Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina by the Use of Standard Forensic Methods and DNA Typing

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The postmortem remains of sixty-one war victims were excavated from 6 mass graves in Bosnia and Herzegovina one and a half years after interment. Using standard identification methods, including the matching of medical and dental records, the recognition of distinguishing characteristics such as the use of clothing and belongings, and video superimposition, 35 persons were identified. For the remaining 26 persons identification efforts continue. DNA typing was performed at the HLA DQA1 locus and five PM system loci. Results from DNA typing were confirmed by other methods. DNA profiles of family members of 150 missing persons are now being developed using the 6 loci. These DNA profiles will then be compared with those generated from the bone and teeth remains of the unidentified victims.

Author Information

Primorac, D
University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
Andelinovic, S
Definis-Gojanovic, M
Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Clinical Hospital Split, Split, Croatia
Drmic, I
Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Clinical Hospital Split, Split, Croatia
Rezic, B
Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Clinical Hospital Split, Split, Croatia
Baden, MM
Forensic Science Unit, New York State Police, Albany, NY
Kennedy, MA
Affymetrix, Santa Clara, CA
Schanfield, MS
Analytical Genetic Testing Center, Denver, CO
Skakel, SB
AmeriCares Foundation, New Canaan, CT
Lee, HC
Forensic Science Laboratory, Connecticut State Police, Meriden, CT
Pages: 4
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS14019J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14019J