Elite Death Scene Investigation Training

Master the First 24 Hours – Every Second Counts

RET. NYPD Detective Sgt. Peter Panuccio – Homicide Edge Lead Instructor

With over 39 years of frontline experience in homicide and narcotics investigations, Retired Detective Pete Panuccio now spearheads Homicide Edge: Elite Death Scene Investigation Training. A decorated veteran and Medal of Valor recipient for his heroic actions during the 9/11 attacks, Pete’s storied career includes solving some of New York City’s most complex cases. Known for his candid, no-nonsense approach and sharp, street-smart insights, Pete transforms intricate investigative techniques into actionable, real-world strategies.

Pete’s training is grounded in decades of practical experience and is also constantly updated to reflect today’s challenges. With homicide rates rising in critical areas such as Charlotte, NC (+13%) and Colorado Springs (+56%), his dynamic, scenario-based teaching ensures that every participant leaves ready to master the first 24 hours of any death scene. When you train with Pete and our team of highly decorated NYPD veterans—each with thousands of cases under their belts—you’re investing in unparalleled expertise and field-tested tactics that make all the difference on the job.

Homicide Edge is a 3- to 5-day intensive training program designed for police officers, first responders, coroners, forensic specialists, and criminal justice professionals. This course delivers the latest advanced investigative strategies and real-world case analyses to ensure every participant is fully equipped to handle the most critical moments on scene.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Rapid Response & Scene Command

 Welcome & Objectives:

• Introduction and course roadmap
• Overview of professional development goals

Responding to the Scene:

• First response protocols and chain-of-command
• Rapid identification: distinguishing between homicide, suicide, accident, and ambiguous death scenarios
• Establishing inner and outer perimeters, controlling bystanders and media

Initial Evidence & Documentation:

• Recording first impressions and environmental factors
• Techniques for immediate photographic, written, and digital documentation

Preliminary Investigative Tactics:

• Early scene security and coordination with forensic units
• Identifying the deceased using biometrics and personal belongings

Evidence Preservation & Witness Engagement

Preserving Critical Evidence:

• Recognizing and securing transient evidence
• Best practices to avoid contamination

The Art of the Walkthrough:

• Holistic scene observation techniques
• Developing preliminary investigative hypotheses
• Case study review of real NYPD scenarios

Effective Witness Engagement:

• Strategies for calming distressed witnesses
• Interview techniques for direct, indirect, and reluctant witnesses
• Role-playing exercises on canvassing and community engagement

Leveraging Technology:

• Utilizing surveillance systems, digital forensics, and social media intelligence

Integrated Investigation & Strategic Planning

 Synthesizing Evidence:

• Connecting physical evidence with witness testimony
• Identifying inconsistencies and refining leads

Strategic Action:

• Collaborative planning between patrol, detectives, and forensic experts
• Effective documentation for long-term investigations

Advanced Techniques:

• Deep-dive into interview and interrogation tactics
• Real case debriefs from highly experienced NYPD detectives

Final Simulation Workshop:

• Team-based simulation of a homicide scene
• Developing and presenting a comprehensive investigation plan

Note: Course modules and/or content can be adapted to meet the specific training objectives of your organization.