Preliminary forensics

This report summarizes the preliminary findings of forensic analysis on evidence collected in Case # 001905-16D-2023. Additional analyses are ongoing and may result in updates or modifications to these early results.

Analysis of Autopsy Findings

• Swabs of victim's left hand were positive for gunshot residue.
• Swabs of victim's right hand were positive for gunshot residue.
• Swabs of penis and scrotum were positive for vaginal residue.

Analysis of SIG Sauer P226 handgun (Evidence # 001905-01)

• Serial number on the weapon matches the serial number of the weapon issued to Detective Charles Tatum by the Yoknapatawpha County Sheriff's Department.
• Fourteen (14) rounds were found in the weapon, which holds a 15-round clip.
• The spent 9mm casing recovered at the scene (Evidence # 001905-02) is consistent with the 14 rounds found in the weapon.
• Traces of lubricating oil were observed on the outside of the weapon, typically seen following a recent cleaning.
• Following removal of the rubber grips, a line of recently applied oil is visible, consistent with conditions observed following a recent cleaning.
• The barrel of the weapon is mirror clean with faint traces of carbon observed, consistent with a single shot being fired following a recent cleaning.
• The bullet recovered during autopsy is a ballistic match to this weapon.

Trace Evidence

Fingerprints

SIG Sauer P226 handgun (Evidence # 001905-01)

• Fingerprints consistent with Charles Tatum were observed and have been excluded.
• Unidentified fingerprints were observed on the grip of the weapon.
• Unidentified fingerprints were observed on the grip and slide of the weapon.

Spent 9mm casing (Evidence # 001905-02)

• Fingerprints consistent with Charles Tatum were observed and have been excluded.

Entry door

• Fingerprints consistent with Charles Tatum were observed and have been excluded.
• Fingerprints consistent with Marion Sanders were observed and have been excluded.
• Unidentified fingerprints were observed on inside edge of the entry door.

Matchbook (Evidence # 001905-15-02)

• Fingerprints consistent with Charles Tatum were observed and have been excluded.
• Unidentified fingerprints were observed on the outside of the matchbook.

Hairs

• 11-inch brown-gray hairs consistent with Charles Tatum were collected and have been excluded.
• 22-inch brown hairs consistent with Marion Sanders were collected and have been excluded.
• 19-inch unidentified brown hairs were collected from the living room, bedroom, and bathroom.