An in-field evaluation of rapid DNA instruments for disaster victim identification.

In 2019 and 2020, disaster victim identification (DVI) simulations were conducted at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research. Whole and fragmented cadavers were positioned to replicate a building collapse scenario and left to decompose for up to 4 weeks. This study evaluated the utility of the ANDE™ 6C Rapid DNA System and the RapidHIT ID System for DVI in the field and mortuary.

Current and emerging tools for the recovery of genetic information from post mortem samples: New directions for disaster victim identification.

DNA profiling has emerged as the gold standard for the identification of victims in mass disaster events providing an ability to identify victims, reassociate remains and provide investigative leads at a relatively low cost, and with a high degree of discrimination. For the majority of samples, DNA-based identification can be achieved in a fast, streamlined and high-throughput manner. However, a large number of remains will be extremely compromised, characteristic of mass disasters.