What should be done first when examining an abandoned vehicle?

When examining an abandoned vehicle, the first action that should be taken is to photograph the original spot where the vehicle is located. This step is crucial because it captures the scene as it is found, preserving important context that may be relevant to the investigation. The original location can provide valuable evidence regarding how the vehicle came to be there, including potential connections to surrounding areas or other evidence nearby.

Photographing the scene first ensures that all details are documented before any changes occur, such as the arrival of other personnel or environmental alterations. This visual documentation serves not only as an initial record but also helps investigators during later analysis or in court presentations, enabling them to reinforce their findings with visual evidence.

Other actions, such as measuring the space inside the vehicle, examining the floor, or testing the temperature of the radiator, are also important in the investigative process, but they follow the primary step of documenting the original condition of the scene. Establishing this baseline through photographs provides essential context for subsequent examinations and analyses.