Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-6 | Issue-02 | 17-19
Case Report
Forensic Engineering Investigation on a Collapsed School Building Involved Multiple Deaths: A Real Case Report
T. Nataraja Moorthy
Published : Feb. 17, 2021
Abstract
Forensic crime scene investigators need to have the basic knowledge of science, engineering and medicine fitted for legal or public argumentation. Only an experienced forensic crime scene investigator can handle such cases and to arrive a conclusion for the presentation in the legal system. Forensic engineering investigation is multi-disciplinary process for investigating and reporting the cause of engineering problems which may have legal ramifications. Building collapse becomes a major threat to the society and people lost the confident on constructors and government. The professionals involved in the construction, viz. engineers, builders and contractors are under severe scrutiny about their role and responsibilities in the collapses. The municipal and corporation authorities have been approving for building constructions such as apartments, schools, colleges and many others. Irrespective of town or villages, construction industry, sometimes has been operating in a chaotic manner due to inadequate legislative building codes or violating building codes. The causes of building collapse ranges from substandard building materials to corruption. The present crime scene case study investigated a collapsed school building forensically the causes of elementary school building collapse, led to the death of 5 children and many sustained injuries, the incident occurred in India, as investigated by the author and identified the cause. The author presented his testimony in the court of law and Honourable Judge accepted the forensic findings and the case ended with conviction.