Post-Mortem Investigation at the Scene of Death in Thailand

Abstract

Investigating a scene of death is a legal procedure that require the participation of medical professionals and cannot be avoided. This article aims to provide essential information about the basic procedures for investigating a crime scene and conducting a post-mortem examination in accordance with Thai laws, to ensure that readers can perform their jobs correctly and with confidence. The topics covered include the reasons for conducting a post-mortem examination according to Section 148 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the role of physicians and the post-mortem examination team, the preparation process before post-mortem examinations, data inquiry when a doctor arrives at the location where a corpse is found, techniques for photographing and collecting evidence, the forensic examination of a corpse, how to evaluate the time of death using rigor mortis, livor mortis, and the stages of decomposition, and recommendations for providing detailed feedback on post-mortem examination reports. In summary, examining the scene of death is a necessary procedure that all doctors must be able to carry out within the framework of the law. It is an important mechanism for promoting justice in society, relying on medical and scientific knowledge for the benefit of the general public.