Forensic Testing Done on Human Skull

DECATUR- It may be weeks before we know the identity behind a human skull found in Macon county. A forensic dentist is now examining the bones.
    Forensic testing is a long and intricate process In fact dental records are sometimes the only way to positively identify someone or exclude who this person may not be.
    Doctor linda klepinger has been a Forensic Anthropolgist for more than 30 years. She says when human remains are found there are so many questions that investigators need answered.
    "Often they want to know how long it's been there?"
    Just one of many answers that macon county detectives are waiting for. But in this case with limited evidence....she says there may be more unknowns.
    "There's a whole lot that you might not be able to tell from a skull you have no idea of stature."
    Figuring out who this person is...Is only one mystery... How did they get there? And how did they die?
    "Sometimes you might see evidence of trauma. If there's cut marks in vertebrae and especially in de-capetations."
    All crucial information needed but klepinger says there's always the chance they'll never know.
    "Sometimes though you just never make a match. Nobody ever turns them in as missing."
    Detectives i spoke with today hope they have some answers by the end of the week. So they can continue with their own investigation.