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Updated: Mar 2, 2026

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Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
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Skeletal material associated with the Lindbergh kidnap case.
1Anthropology Department, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996-0720.
Summary
Forensic analysis of bones linked to the Lindbergh case revealed ten human and two animal bones. These human remains are consistent with a 20-month-old male child.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Osteology
- Criminal Investigation
Background:
- The Lindbergh kidnapping case remains a subject of historical interest and legal scrutiny.
- In the late 1970s and early 1980s, renewed efforts were made to re-examine evidence related to the case.
- Key skeletal remains, purportedly linked to the case, were made available for scientific analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scientific examination of twelve bones associated with the Lindbergh case.
- To determine the human or animal origin of the bones.
- To perform anthropometric measurements and provide descriptions for identification purposes.
Main Methods:
- X-ray examination of twelve bones by Dr. Krogman in 1977.
- Physical examination, anthropometric measurement, and photography of the same bones in 1982.
- Identification and detailed description of each bone, distinguishing between human and animal origins.
Main Results:
- Of the twelve bones examined, ten were identified as human and two as animal.
- The human bones originated from the hands and feet.
- Anthropometric measurements and skeletal development were consistent with a male child approximately 20 months old.
Conclusions:
- The scientific examination provided critical data on the nature and origin of the skeletal remains.
- The findings contribute to the ongoing historical and forensic understanding of the Lindbergh case evidence.
- The analysis confirmed the presence of human remains consistent with a young child's development.
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