Crime Scene Search Patterns

Line/Strip Search Pattern

1-2 investigators start at the boundary of the crime scene & search in straight lines across to the other side of the crime scene.

Night Searches

Investigators avoid carrying out outdoor or dark indoor crime scene searches at night. If possible, the crime scene is secured and guarded until morning. - typically wait for sun to come up

Wheel/Ray Search Pattern

Several investigators search in straight lines from the center to the boundary (outward) or from the boundary to the center (inward). - worst method -used if time is of the essence

Grid search pattern

Two or more investigators form a grid by searching in line patterns that overlap and are perpendicular to each other. - most likely used for murders

Quadrant/Zone Search Pattern

The crime scene is divided into smaller sections (zones). One or more investigators are assigned to search each zone. - complex or large search area

Spiral search pattern

The searcher begins at a certain point and walks in increasingly larger circles to the outermost boundary of the search area. - 1 person