FORENSIC MANAGEMENT OF MASS FATALITY OCCURRING IN DISASTER CONDITIONS

S. Morar, E. Topircean, L. O. Muja

Abstract: Mass fatality incidents (MFIs) - whether resulting from natural disasters, pandemics, or human-made catastrophes - pose unique challenges to forensic systems, requiring swift, coordinated, and multidisciplinary interventions. We explore the forensic management of mass fatalities, with a focus on internationally recognized protocols, such as the Interpol Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) model, and the role of particular forensic subspecialties such as pathology, odontology, anthropology, radiology, and genetics. Drawing from recent literature and the local experience in Sibiu County, Romania, our paper highlights the operational difficulties generated by MFIs such as overcrowded morgues, limited protective equipment, and logistical strain on identification procedures. The integration of advanced techniques, like DNA profiling and anthropological analysis, is essential but often constrained by logistical and legislative gaps, and needs increased investment in state-of-the-art forensic infrastructure. The analysis of the existing emergency plans underscores the pressing need for updated, more rigorous national legislation and well-defined local protocols, in order to ensure efficient professional outcomes and also ethical and dignified handling of victims in large-scale fatality events.
Keywords: mass fatalities, disaster medicine, identification, forensic medicine, COVID-19 pandemic, emergency response.