How the forensic multidisciplinary approach can solve a fatal dog pack attack

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Veterinary Forensics
• Odontology

Background:

• A 61-year-old man was found deceased with extensive injuries consistent with dog bites.
• The scene suggested a possible canine pack attack, with an overturned olive bin nearby.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a fatal dog pack attack using a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.
• To identify the specific dogs involved and their level of participation through forensic analysis.

Main Methods:

• Crime scene analysis and autopsy findings.
• Veterinary review of six dogs, including dental impressions and DNA analysis.
• Odontological bite mark comparison and DNA profiling from victim's clothing and skin.

Main Results:

• Positive correlations were established between bite wounds and the dental arches of two dogs exhibiting dysgnathia (dental abnormalities).
• DNA analysis confirmed the presence of dog saliva on the victim's clothing and skin.
• The victim's clothing also showed correlations with the dental casts of the identified dogs.

Conclusions:

• This case represents a documented lethal watchdogs pack attack.
• The identification of the most active participants was achieved through unique odontological alterations (dysgnathia), a novel approach in canine attack investigations.
• Forensic genetics and odontology combined effectively identified the primary aggressors in a fatal dog pack attack.