The Forensic Identification investigator was examining a business break-in and safe attack scene in which a snowmobile had been used as the method of transportation.  From the description and measurements of the scene track that the investigator provided over the phone, I was able to supply him with the likely type of suspect snowmobile.

     The Detachment investigator knew of such a snowmobile in the local area, and on comparing its track and the details found in the scene snow-track, they were able to identify various accidental characteristics that had been reproduced in the hard-packed snow of the crime scene.  The suspect subsequently entered a guilty plea in court after his residence was searched and further incriminating evidence was found for this and other criminal offences.  The grounds for the search warrant were predominantly based on the scene snowmobile track evidence.

     The combination of certain rubber track and ski measurements can lead to a short list of possible suspect models.  Examination for accidental characteristics can then positively identify the suspect snowmobile to the crime scene track.  Most snow conditions, even ice, can yield something of value in many instances.

     Photo #2 shows a typical single track on a lake surface.  One might think that one simply has to follow the track far enough to arrive at the culprit machine.  However, photo #3 shows a typical lake scene with hundreds of tracks leading to only one or two trails. 

     One could easily envisage a search and rescue operation where initial unorganized attempts to locate the lost party have created abundant false trails for any ensuing organized search party.  Knowing the type of machine used by the lost party, the organized search members could be armed with the track design and dimensions so as to eliminate false leads, thereby saving valuable time and effort that could save lives!