In forensic investigations, what type of evidence is most often linked to the identity of a victim?

Dental records are the most reliable and often used form of evidence linked to the identity of a victim in forensic investigations due to their unique nature. Each individual has distinct dental structures, including specific patterns of dental work, tooth alignment, and natural variations that are documented through x-rays and charts. When a deceased individual is found, and identification is necessary, forensic dentists can compare the remains to existing dental records, providing a strong method of confirming identity.

While personal belongings can also offer clues about a victim’s identity, they may not always be definitive or unique to an individual. Similarly, handwriting analysis and social media activities can provide contextual information, but they are less concrete compared to the physical evidence presented by dental records. Thus, in the context of establishing a definitive identity, dental records hold the most weight in forensic science.