Shooting Incident Reconstruction

Course Description

This 5-day, 40-hour course will prepare current or future crime scene investigators to accurately and confidently process and interpret shooting scenes using defensible scientific methodology, validated techniques, and modern tools through a combination of classroom instruction, live-fire exercises, realistic practical exercises, daily quizzes or exercises and a final comprehensive test. Course objectives: • Develop the knowledge and practical skills required to examine and document shooting scenes using industry-standard best practices and equipment, including the use of 3D laser scanners. • Build confidence in analyzing, documenting, and interpreting shooting scenes through hands-on practice, guided observation, and realistic case examples. • Apply objective interpretations to analytical results using techniques to minimize cognitive bias. Topics include: • Foundational elements • Impact damage assessment & projectile path analysis • Shotgun patterns, projected gunshot residues, chemical testing, 3D laser scanning • Live-fire validation & ground-truth exercises • Accuracy & uncertainty • Interpretation, reporting, ethics and expert testimony About your instructor: This course is designed and presented by Darryl Barr, a Forensic Scientist with over 30 years of experience in the examination and reconstruction of shooting incidents across Canada. Darryl stays current with the issues and latest techniques in shooting reconstruction by attending annual training seminars and workshops. Darryl provides training nationally and internationally on this topic and has provided expert testimony in all levels of court across Canada, as well as for public inquiries and military courts martial. Darryl was also a pioneer in introducing 3D computer modeling of shooting incidents to Canadian courtrooms. Course Location: This course is being hosted by the Washington State Patrol - Crime Scene Response Team in Cheney, WA. Course Dates & Times: April 13-17, 2026 (5-days)