LOUISVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — Crews continue the complex task of identifying victims from the recent UPS crash, a process described as challenging by forensic experts.

According to retired forensic anthropologist Dr. John Williams, who has over 40 years of experience in mass fatality incidents, the scope of the destruction complicates victim identification. “Several blocks have been decimated, making it a time-consuming procedure to search for remains and evidence,” Williams noted.

He emphasized that the conditions of the crash present unique difficulties. “In Guam, we encountered both intact and severely burned bodies, alongside significant trauma from the impact,” he explained. Williams mentioned that identifying human remains in such situations can be particularly tough, as many pieces may appear similar.

Identification efforts often rely on dental records, implants, or dentures that may carry engravings. “If a person has a pacemaker, it typically has a serial number,” he stated.

Williams highlighted the importance of gathering demographic information about the missing individuals, including age and ancestry, to aid in identification. Despite the tedious nature of this work, he stresses the need for meticulous care to provide closure to families.

“None of these people expected not to return home,” he said, reflecting on the emotional toll of disaster identification.