Objective establishment of the truth is the goal of any good crime scene investigator. This demands a consideration of all evidence available using proven scientific methodologies to establish objective snapshots of the crime. The majority of forensic disciplines shed light on the “who” of a crime, bloodstain pattern analysis is one of the most important disciplines to address “what” happened. Understanding the discipline, its underlying scientific basis, and how best to apply this knowledge is crucial in the investigator’s quest for the truth.

Internationally known experts in crime scene analysis, Tom Bevel and Ross M. Gardner explore bloodstain pattern analysis in depth, explaining what it is, how it is used, and the practical methodologies employed to achieve defensible results.

Bloodstain Pattern Analysis with an Introduction to Crime Scene Reconstruction, Third Edition:

Presents a specific and detailed taxonomy of bloodstain pattern characteristics
Offers a full-color fold-out Decision Map to guide analysts through the classification process
Uses full-color photos and diagrams to illustrate concepts
Describes the theory, principles, and methodology for crime scene reconstruction
Details proven, applicable scientific methodologies
Emphasizes observable and reproducible results to mitigate accusations of subjectivity in evidence and testimony
Provides more than 60% new or significantly revised information


Offering practical advice and tips for novices and experienced professionals, this book employs clear, lucid, and reasoned scientific arguments to provide the tools to guide and focus any investigative effor