Crime scene investigation, TWLC style

TWLC students at Murray Middle School in Stuart, Florida, traded their books for magnifying glasses in the Crime Scene Investigation session. Student detectives began the fall mystery session after being sworn in. Their mission: find who killed Felix Navidad, the victim from the curriculum’s mock crime. 

The first step in their detective work was to sketch the crime scene and discuss potential suspects and motives. As students began their second week of investigation, the criminal struck again! The suspect ran through the lab, turned over tables and classroom supplies, trailing evidence throughout campus. Using real forensic facial composite software, student investigators created “Wanted” posters and hung them throughout campus. They also created a week-long, school-wide contest to identify the bandit, and the whole student body participated in the search. 

Our detectives found out that bandit was one of our administrators, thus the educated guessing began. Most of our faculty, staff, and students were surprised when the identity of the criminal was revealed to be Mrs. Barrett, our assistant principal! Her clever disguise made it very hard for the students to correctly guess her identity.

Now that the crime has been solved, the 44 students participating in the fall session will study fingerprinting, DNA, chromatography, hair and fibers analysis, mystery liquid testing and footprint casting. Students will also enjoy a field trip to the Martin County Sheriff’s office to meet with officers in the Crime Scene Division. Students will view real crime scene evidence and observe officers’ processes.

Learn more about the programs of the Tiger Woods Learning Center.