As of April 2005, when the process was suspended, we had identified only 1,592 out of the presumed 2,749 who died.

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.

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.