The use of Insects in Death Investigations: An Analysis of Cases in British Columbia over a Five Year Period

Forty-two forensic entomology cases, from human death investigations in British Columbia, (B.C.) were analyzed. The insects collected from the remains were identified based on species, developmental stage, and age of remains to begin a database for B.C. Cases also were summarized by habitat and geographical region, toxicology, manner of death and season of discovery. Most of the cases were from the Vancouver region, and were found in primarily rural situations, although many were found inside dwellings or enclosures. Drugs and/or alcohol were detected in 80% of cases tested. Most of the 42 cases were the result of homicide, and although detected year-round, occurred primarily between June and October.