Teens test forensic skills with autopsies at summer camp

TIFFIN — Several high schoolers — some even from out of state — recently spent their afternoons for a week at Tiffin University's annual forensic science camp. The students conducted staged autopsies on nine different "victims" (pigs) with the assistance of Seneca County Coroner Dr. Zachary West. The camp gives high schoolers entering their sophomore or junior years a chance to explore real-world applications of forensic science in a controlled and educational environment. "Obviously, they're pigs and not human individuals," said West, who guided students through the day's lab. "But the goal is to introduce them to the process in a safe, teaching-centered space — one where they can make observations, ask questions, and learn how to work together." This year, 24 campers participated in hands-on sessions throughout the week, including blood spatter analysis, ballistics, and a fire investigation demonstration. Several students said the autopsy lab was the most intense and memorable day. "It was exactly what I expected," said Brittani Sagraves, who traveled from Beavercreek to attend the program. "It was a little sad because it's an animal, but I'll never forget it." Noah Chevillet, from the Bay Area in California, said the experience helped clarify his direction in the field. "I've always liked watching forensic science stuff, but being this close to it helped me realize I might want a different path," he said. "Still, I'm glad I came — it's been eye-opening." For Sagraves as well as other participants, the camp has influenced college plans. "I really have enjoyed everything so far," she said. "I think this would be a good career choice," adding the experience helped solidify her decision to attend Tiffin University in the fall. West emphasized that the goal of the camp isn't just technical exposure but developing critical thinking and resilience. "Each specimen is a little different," West said. "They're learning how to make observations, how to work through challenges, and how to think like investigators." The program also allows students to assess their comfort level in a field that often involves confronting difficult material — a point West said is essential to long-term success. "There's always the potential for exposure to secondary trauma in this work — especially in real-world death investigations," he said. "That's why we talk to them about the mental aspect too, and give them space to reflect on whether this kind of work is something they can and want to handle." Students noted how quickly they bonded over the shared experience, no matter where they are from. "Having not ever met any of these people previously, and suddenly we're all really close because of what we've been able to do together —It's kind of weird but also really cool." said Madigan Lipke, a participant from Minneapolis.