A method for backward calculation of debris in a post blast scene

This calculation method is applied to two case studies, which illustrate that it is applicable to events involving both low and high order accidental explosion events. Besides accidents, the method is also applicable to intentional explosion scenarios such as terrorist attacks. It is shown that the added value of such a method to forensic investigation depends on the precision of the data collected. Therefore, it is recommended that first responders not only register the impact locations but also attempt to identify the part of the donor installation from which the debris originated. Furthermore, estimates should be made of the launch height and ballistic properties of the debris and information should be recorded on obstructions and terrain properties in the vicinity. In this way, the quality of the backward calculations can be optimized.