Authorities in Tacoma, Washington, have identified and reunited a man with his severed finger found earlier this month in an alley. Officers responded to a call on the 800 block of South Pine Street, discovering the detached digit with no blood, likely dropped by an animal.
Initial identification efforts
Detective William Muse, public information officer for the Tacoma Police Department, explained that officers initially attempted to identify the finger’s owner using a hand-held fingerprint scanner, a common tool for law enforcement. Unfortunately, this method proved unsuccessful. Hospitals were then contacted for recent dismemberment cases, but no records matched.
Breakthrough and claim
The case took a turn when a man, who had seen the news story, contacted authorities to claim the finger. He identified himself and explained that he had lost multiple digits while handling fireworks. The fingerprints matched the man’s records in the FBI database, confirming his ownership.
Detective Muse highlighted the unusual nature of the case and the importance of advanced technology and public awareness in solving such incidents. The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office played a crucial role in the final identification process.
This peculiar case underscores the collaborative efforts between law enforcement, medical examiners, and the community in resolving unexpected incidents, ensuring that even the smallest parts are returned to their rightful owners.