Experience based efficient approach for DNA-led identification of highly carbonized human remains

In case of severely burned bodies, victim identification by visual or fingerprints recognition is often prevented by altered body conditions. To overcome these circumstances, different techniques are available. Among these, the most reliable is molecular identification, especially in cases of detached body parts. However, DNA analysis of highly burned remains is a very challenging task. The high temperatures reached at the time of burning can lead to the complete destruction of the genetic material, making DNA typing arduous. This work presented a successful identification through molecular analysis of 11 heavily carbonized victims assigned to the Institute of Legal Medicine of Modena (Italy) between June 2022 and June 2023: a helicopter crash, a femicide and two car accidents. Post-mortem (PM) and ante-mortem (AM) data were compared, allowing victims’ identification and their quick return to relatives. Complete autosomal and Y chromosome STRs profiles were obtained for all the corpses. For the helicopter crash case, the utility of the DVI module implemented in the Familias software is shown as this aid the fast association of the seven victims involved with the familiar references available for identification. The importance of the sampling strategy and the need of a systematic approach to select the most promising biological material for a more successful downstream DNA-based identification is also highlighted.