Abstract
This pilot study examines the effects of heat-induced postmortem changes on DNA recovery from skeletal remains by comparing a forensic case involving failed DNA identification
with multiple published cases where DNA was successfully extracted from thermally altered
bones. The analysis evaluates how variables such as burn severity, bone type, and soft tissue
presence influence DNA preservation. Drawing on forensic literature—including Ubelaker
(2008), McKinnon et al. (2021), and Almulhim & Menezes (2023)—the study explores the
biochemical and structural effects of heat, focusing on collagen degradation and mineral
crystallinity. Thermal damage is assessed through visual indicators, such as color changes and
fracture patterns, and interpreted using spectrophotometric data (Krap et al., 2019). DNA
extraction techniques, including total demineralization and silica-based purification, are
compared across varying thermal exposures. The findings identify key indicators of DNA
survivability and offer practical guidelines for selecting viable bone samples from burned
remains. Beyond the laboratory, the study considers broader forensic, legal, and ethical
implications. It highlights the risks of misinterpreting degraded DNA, particularly in legal
contexts where terminology may affect the admissibility and credibility of forensic evidence.
Reference is made to the Innocence Project and the potential for wrongful convictions due to
poorly contextualized DNA analysis. The Surfside condominium collapse is presented as a
model of rapid, coordinated identification using field-based DNA protocols. The potential of
forensic genetic genealogy is also addressed, with attention to current limitations in applying this
technology to heat-damaged remains. Overall, the study underscores the need for transparent,
scientifically grounded approaches to DNA recovery and interpretation in cases involving
thermally compromised human remains.