Bangkok: The head of forensic science has announced that DNA samples have been collected from four families to identify the victims of the tragic bus-train collision incident.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Wirun Suphasinghsiripreecha, Commander of the Forensic Science Institute, revealed advancements in the identification process of the victims involved in the collision at Asoke-Din Daeng intersection. The investigation into the cause of death and victim identification is largely complete, with DNA results and the collection of relative samples remaining as the final steps. All victims were severely burned, which rendered visual identification impossible, and fingerprints and some dental records were obliterated by the heat, making DNA the sole reliable method for identification.
Currently, there are eight bodies and three human remains awaiting DNA quality test results, expected soon. Relatives from four families have begun the process of collecting DNA samples, although not all families have come forward yet. Pol. Maj. Gen. Wirun emphasized the importance of relatives submitting samples promptly to facilitate quicker identification. He anticipates confirming the identities by Tuesday, May 19th, and will then notify the relatives. The results will be forwarded to Makkasan Police Station for official confirmation prior to the bodies being released for religious rites.
The Institute of Forensic Medicine stated that relatives can provide DNA samples daily to speed up the identification process. Despite the challenges posed by the severity of the burns, DNA remains the key evidence to accurately establish the identities of the deceased.