As of April 2005, when the process was suspended, we had identified only 1,592 out of the presumed 2,749 who died. |
In the instance of the World Trade Center attacks, first responders worked tirelessly for nine months. In contrast, my staff would work doggedly for more than three years. |
Possibly, too, many were entirely cremated and will never be identified. |
Working with the families is critical to getting the job done properly, and the truth is that the medical examiner and the police need to establish a synergistic relationship from the outset. |