Recent advances in forensic science have significantly improved our ability to solve cases and convict criminals. In order to take advantage of the available technology, crime scene investigators must approach every crime scene with an eye towards capturing every possible piece of evidence. To accomplish this goal, investigators need to arrive at each scene with the proper equipment to conduct a thorough investigation. In addition, investigators now realize that with the right vehicle, they can often make an even stronger case by processing evidence right at major crime scenes. In this article, I’ll look at these issues and some of the options available for mobile crime scene vehicles.

Let’s begin by taking a look at the problem of storing and transporting the equipment needed at a crime scene. The simplest and cheapest solution is to load everything into the trunk of a patrol car. Many agencies in areas with low crime rates and tight budgets rely on this solution. And in general, it works fine—especially when you are talking about the basic equipment that every crime scene investigator should bring to every scene (things like fingerprint equipment; photographic equipment; blood collection supplies; evidence packaging; casting and impression equipment; biohazard kits; and miscellaneous supplies such as measuring devices, labels, paper and pens or pencils, screwdrivers, pocket knives, other cutting tools, and flashlights and batteries, etc.).

Of course, this approach has some obvious drawbacks. First, it’s difficult to keep your equipment organized in a patrol car. Also, you may run into a problem if you have a scene that requires special equipment. For example, items such as extra lighting sources, large tents, and privacy screens won’t fit into the truck. For those items, you’ll need to find a larger vehicle. Be sure to make arrangements to access such a vehicle ahead of time so you’re prepared when you get called to that type of scene.

Because of these problems, many agencies choose to purchase a separate vehicle for their crime scene investigation equipment. Some options include panel or box vans, box trucks, and old ambulances. Again, your budget and your caseload will determine how far you can go. All of these vehicles I just mentioned have the benefit of providing extra storage space. And by adding shelves and other storage containers, you can make it easier to keep your equipment and the evidence you gather organized and well-protected. Ambulances are often an especially good choice for a crime scene vehicle because they already have built-in containers that can be retrofitted to your needs. Ambulances, box vans, and box trucks also have the advantage of being large enough to walk around in comfortably. These vans and trucks may also be equipped with their own generators, lighting systems, and work stations.