The Exhumation and Identification of Lee Harvey Oswald

The investigations surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the subsequent killing of Lee Harvey Oswald resulted in many theories concerning what really happened in November 1963. One theory postulated the substitution of a Russian agent for Oswald; another that his grave was a...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of forensic sciences 1984-01, Vol.29 (1), p.19-38
Main Authors: Norton, LE, Cottone, JA, Sopher, IM, DiMaio, VJM
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Assassinations & assassination attempts
Evidence
Forensic odontology
Forensic pathology
Oswald, Lee Harvey (1939-63)
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Summary:The investigations surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the subsequent killing of Lee Harvey Oswald resulted in many theories concerning what really happened in November 1963. One theory postulated the substitution of a Russian agent for Oswald; another that his grave was actually empty. This report documents the historical background, legal proceedings, preparations and actual exhumation, examination, and identification of the remains of Lee Harvey Oswald. The pertinent findings of a cracked vault, deteriorated casket, decomposed remains, two rings, a mastoidectomy defect, and the details of the positive dental identification are presented. Additional items covered include team formation, security measures, site selection, financial considerations, the news media, and selection of authorized witnesses.
ISSN:0022-1198
1556-4029
DOI:10.1520/JFS11631J