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Skeletal System CER Bones Clue

A single set of human remains were found, when a local couple was renovating their newly purchased 50-year old home.  The couple told police that the discovery was made after they removed the flooring of the back porch and were digging to re-stabilize the foundation.  The local inspector and forensic team were sent in to exhume the remains and attempt to find clues about the deceased person.  

Below are a list of clues and possible victims.  Analyze the clues and help solve the case! 

Who was the victim?  What was the cause of death?  Was foul play involved?  Justify your answers.

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Bone Clues

Pelvic arch less than 90°

Missing teeth with healed alveolar margins

Hyoid bone shows a comminuted fracture

Significant osteoarthritis evident in phalanges of both hands

Numerous healed injuries to the ribs, mandible, maxilla, nasal bone, and orbital margins

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Possible Victims

Chandra Nguyen: College-age Asian-American female, waitress, domestic abuse victim

Ray Smith: African-American male, Retired US Navy pilot, golden gloves candidate 

Tony Manzullo: Caucasian male, Contractor/Builder, starting forward in last year’s local hockey league

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Pre-write

Claim: 

Evidence:

Reasoning: