Virginia Division of Forensic Science
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions
- Why can't I submit debris from a fire scene in a plastic or paper bag?
- Will the laboratory analyze fireworks?
- What do I do with an intact explosive device?
- How well do the GSR kits work?
Answers
-
Why can't I submit debris from a fire scene in a plastic or paper bag?
Many petroleum products, or other potential accelerants, evaporate very quickly. An airtight container must be used to ensure that any product is retained in the debris rather than lost prior to analysis. We recommend clean, lined, airtight paint cans as the most appropriate containers for fire debris.
-
Will the laboratory analyze fireworks?
If an item is commercially labeled D.O.T. Class C. Fireworks, it is not necessary for the laboratory to analyze the chemical content of the item. The Code of Virginia lists those fireworks that are legal and the remainder are excluded based upon their function not chemical composition. Oftentimes a videotape of the device being set off is sufficient for court. See Code of Virginia Sections §59.1-142 and §59.1-147.
-
What do I do with an intact explosive device?
Do not bring it to the laboratory! The lab does not accept live explosive devices. The device must rendered safe prior to submission to the lab. If the local police agency does not have the capability to do this, the Virginia Department of State Police, EOD employees can provide advice and assistance. It is extremely important to list on the Request for Laboratory Examination exactly what was used to render the device safe.
-
How well do the GSR kits work?
The best way to measure how well the GSR kits work is to look at suicide cases. Over the past four years we have found gunshot residue on the hands of suicide victims 90-95% of the time, if the victim's hands were sampled at the scene, before the body is moved.
If the body is moved and sampled at the morgue, we found GSR on the hands about 70-75% of the time.