Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy students join police crime scene unit for hands-on lesson in forensic science and blood detection techniques

Chattanooga, TN – Students from the Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy got a firsthand look at the science behind crime scene investigations during a recent educational session with the Chattanooga Police Department’s Crime Scene Unit.

The demonstration focused on how investigators detect blood evidence, even when it appears to have been cleaned.

Using a forensic reagent called Bluestar, the students sprayed a seemingly clean wooden floor. When the lights were turned off, a bright blue glow illuminated the surface, revealing traces of blood that had been wiped or washed away.

The hands-on experience offered a striking example of how forensic tools can uncover hidden evidence and play a critical role in building criminal cases.

The session was part of an ongoing effort by the police department to engage students in science and public safety.

By involving young people in real-world applications of forensic science, the department hopes to inspire future interest in both scientific fields and law enforcement careers.