Important study: 70 corpses left to rot in suitcases to reconstruct murder events

Scientists have been conducting the world's largest experiment of its kind in Western Australia that involves 70 dead bodies of animals. These corpses have been placed in colourful suitcases and left to rot. For many, it appears more like a scene from a horror movie, but this experiment could provide a crucial breakthrough for forensic scientists.

The decomposing remains of stillborn piglets have been stuffed into suitcases and also in wheelie bins, which are exposed to extreme environments - perfect for rotting. The objective behind this study is to gauge the impact of decomposition on these bodies.

The decomposition process under 'extreme' environments will help crime scene investigators and forensic scientists to reconstruct the crime scene or murder events.


By measuring the changes in dead bodies during decomposition due to temperature and humidity, researchers would collect useful information on their long-term impact on corpses - inside and outside of the suitcases.


Paola Magni, a senior forensic science lecturer at Murdoch University, explained why murder cases involving bodies placed in tight environments such as these account for a massive chunk of all homicides.

The forensic biologist said: "This happens because the perpetrators try to avoid an easy discovery by the authorities and/or because they need something in which they can temporarily store and move the body from place to place: from the primary crime scene where the death event/murder happens, to the secondary crime scene, where the body is left or discovered,” reported WalesOnline.

"Time is crucial in the reconstruction of events, to pinpoint people, places and motives," she added.

Forensic science has emerged as an important element of the criminal justice system across the world. Forensic scientists or experts examine and analyse evidence from crime scenes to assist the police in the investigation of crimes.