Crime Scene Bloodstains.....at the scene: ....measurement of the bloodstain must be taken. .... location of the stain must be recorded. ....color of the bloodstain recorded. ....kind of material on which the stain is found must be recorded.

What is learned from the shape of the bloodstain: ...the height from which the blood dripped onto the surface. ....short falls produce circular splatters, higher falls produce jagged edges on the spot. The greater the fall, the more jagged the edges of the spot. ....a "sunburst" appearance indicates a drop from a height of 2-3 yards. ....teardrop-shaped blots are the results of the blood striking the surface at an angle.  The appearance would be similar to an exclamation point.

Blood as it dries darkens in color, it turns to reddish brown and then dark brown.  Completely dried, a bloodstain may appear black.  Blood's color in a stain is also affected by:  mold, putrfaction and chemical changes which could result in a green or blue to grayish white color. The volume of blood may indicate the time the victim survived the attack.  Blood pressure drops after death.  A small would surrounded by a large quantity of blood would indicate the victim still had a pulse for a relatively long period.

Bloodstain Analysis Activity....click on the drops of blood!

Click on the triangle to learn more.

This page was last updated on: August 8, 2003

Our thanks to all of those who serve in the name of this great nation.