What should be assumed about all suspicious deaths until proven otherwise?

In criminal investigations, all suspicious deaths are typically assumed to be homicides until sufficient evidence proves otherwise. This approach is rooted in the necessity of thorough investigation and the understanding that initial appearances can be misleading. By presuming that a suspicious death is a homicide, investigators are prompted to scrutinize the case rigorously, ensuring that no evidence is overlooked that may indicate foul play.

This assumption emphasizes the importance of forensic investigation techniques, witness interviews, and evidence collection, allowing law enforcement to build a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the death. Only after thorough analysis can alternative explanations—such as accidental deaths, suicides, or natural causes—be established with a high degree of confidence. The presumption of homicide serves to safeguard against underestimating the potential for criminal behavior and addresses the need for a methodical and cautious approach to potentially criminal incidents.