Radiological, Forensic, and Anthropological Studies of a Concrete Block Containing Bones*

Abstract

Multidisciplinary forensic, anthropological, and radiological studies of bone fragments encased in a concrete block were carried out to determine whether or not the bones were human. Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) investigation was performed before the bones were removed from the concrete. MSCT study pinpointed the location of the bone fragments within the concrete block, which was helpful for their extraction and recovery, and identified most of their types and nature. Osteological study on dry bones provided more accurate identification of the bones and of their side. According to both methods, the human skeletal remains were compatible with those of a child, aged 8-13 years old, with a minimum height of 128 cm. Neither investigation identified sex or racial phenotype. Both studies identified the skeletal remains as consisting of two animal and five human bones. Furthermore, both methods revealed that the concrete completely encased bones, suggesting a secondary burial.

Search protocols for hidden forensic objects beneath floors and within walls

“…Radiography is one of the most commonly-cited methods in forensic literature [7,15,[30][31][32], it being familiar to many of the engineers and anthropologists involved in the work.…”

“…The concrete cap broke up on excavation, the biggest problem in recovery being the continual filling of the grave with rainwater. Dedouit et al [7] found excavation of concrete to be their main issue, with the lifting of concrete slabs being 'unwieldy', their investigation concentrating on the excavation rather than search. Faller-Marquardt et al [13] faced similar problems in excavating a polymer-bound cement.…”

“…Although [5,7,8] indicate that such burial locations (summarised above) are uncommon, they are often high-profile, may need good planning by the perpetrator, and can be the result of premeditation, especially by serial killers (see review below). Conversely, Hawley et al [6] state, "Common paving materials--concrete and asphalt--pose an unusual and complex barrier to disinterment and examination of human remains.…”

The Stone Cold Truth: The Effect of Concrete Encasement on the Rate and Pattern of Soft Tissue Decomposition

“…This disposal method has been historically popularized in the media, and several recent reports suggest it is still utilized with some frequency . Several case studies have been published concerning the deposition of human remains in some form of concrete . However, there has been little systematic study investigating the decomposition of individuals encased in concrete or appropriate concrete excavation methods to preserve evidence and prevent damage to remains.…”

Examination of Human Remains Encased in Concrete: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

“…During the extrication, particular care should be taken to avoid disrupting the concrete or any evidence within the container, which has proved useful for dating or identifying the remains in some published cases (1–3). Regarding extricating the human remains from the concrete, radiologic studies have been shown to be valuable in all published cases (1, 2, 4). In most cases, fluoroscopy was used to identify the position, type, and number of remains within the concrete prior to removal (1).…”