NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME)
($ in millions)
It is now estimated that over 6,000 individuals are missing and presumed dead as a result of the
terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. With few exceptions, identification of victims will
only be possible through DNA analysis. In addition, the OCME has also incurred significant
staffing and supply costs in the aftermath of the attack.
Assumptions:
Because the remains of the deceased in the World Trade Center tragedy are not intact and are
scattered throughout a wide area, it is estimated that 5 DNA samples will have to be collected
and tested before each missing individual can be identified.
Estimated number of missing individuals 6,000
Number of DNA tests per person for positive identification 5
Total number of DNA tests to be performed 30,000
Cost per DNA test $1,500
Total cost for DNA testing $45
In addition, the OCME has been required to maintain critical staff such as pathologists,
medicolegal investigators, and criminalists on constant duty throughout the disaster and
has incurred additional costs for refrigerated vans, autopsy supplies, and body bags.
Estimated cost of additional staffing and supplies $5
Total $50
NYC-WTC 000136421
OCR can misread numbers and units. Confirm readings against the page image before using them.