Silent Death: Investigating Positional Asphyxia
Explore the medical and investigative aspects of asphyxial deaths through real case studies.
Webinar Description
Understanding positional asphyxia is critical for anyone entering the field of forensic science or criminal investigations. This 2-part webinar introduces you to the investigative aspects of asphyxial deaths, with a focus on positional asphyxia, a condition where breathing is restricted due to body position, leading to fatal outcomes.
Through case studies, expert explanations, and forensic terminology, you’ll explore:
The definition of asphyxia and how it differs from hypoxia
Types and causes of asphyxia, with emphasis on positional cases
The role of the coroner in determining cause and manner of death
Scene observations and documentation essentials
Evidence patterns typically found in asphyxia-related deaths
Each 60-minute session blends medical knowledge with investigative skills, equipping you with the tools to identify and analyze this often misunderstood cause of death.
Whether you’re just beginning your forensic training or adding to your professional expertise, this course offers the foundation you need to recognize and document positional asphyxia in real-world cases.
Webinar Description
Understanding positional asphyxia is critical for anyone entering the field of forensic science or criminal investigations. This 2-part webinar introduces you to the investigative aspects of asphyxial deaths, with a focus on positional asphyxia, a condition where breathing is restricted due to body position, leading to fatal outcomes.
Understanding positional asphyxia is critical for anyone entering the field of forensic science or criminal investigations. This 2-part webinar introduces you to the investigative aspects of asphyxial deaths, with a focus on positional asphyxia, a condition where breathing is restricted due to body position, leading to fatal outcomes.
Through case studies, expert explanations, and forensic terminology, you’ll explore:
The definition of asphyxia and how it differs from hypoxia
Types and causes of asphyxia, with emphasis on positional cases
The role of the coroner in determining cause and manner of death
Scene observations and documentation essentials
Evidence patterns typically found in asphyxia-related deaths
Each 60-minute session blends medical knowledge with investigative skills, equipping you with the tools to identify and analyze this often misunderstood cause of death.
Whether you’re just beginning your forensic training or adding to your professional expertise, this course offers the foundation you need to recognize and document positional asphyxia in real-world cases.
Hello! My name is Terri Armenta, and I'm a forensic science educator and trainer with over 25 years of experience teaching forensic science and criminal justice courses. My background blends business management, science, law enforcement, and forensics.
I hold an MS in Forensic Science with an emphasis in Investigations, and a PhD in Distance Learning Education. As the founder of Forensic Training Unlimited (FTU) in Southern California, my company provides hands-on training, workshops, seminars, and online courses that prepare students and professionals for real-world forensic careers.
I have earned several POST certificates and trained with both the Los Angeles County Coroner and the Orange County (CA) Sheriff’s Department. I am also an active member of the Southern California Association of Fingerprint Officers, the International Association for Identification, and the California State Division of the IAI.
In addition to presenting at professional conferences, including the International Association for Identification, I have served as a guest lecturer and adjunct instructor at several colleges and universities.
My passion is helping students build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach their forensic career goals.
Forensic Training Unlimited
Train Like a CSI. Get Job-Ready Skills.
At Forensic Training Unlimited, we don’t just lecture—we coach you through real forensic workflows so you can step into the field with confidence.
Career Tracks
Crime Scene Investigation – scene processing, documentation, photography, sketching, evidence collection & packaging.
Fingerprint Identification & Classification – latent development and lifting, pattern analysis, ACE-V fundamentals.
Death Investigation – scene approach, cause vs. manner, postmortem changes, documentation, and reporting.
Forensic Career Marketing – résumé and portfolio building, interview prep, LinkedIn optimization, job-hunt strategy.
What You’ll Gain
Practical, hands-on training and instructor feedback
Field-ready checklists, templates, and practice files
A portfolio of work you can show employers
Proof of completion (certificate) and next-step guidance
Who It’s For
Aspiring CSIs, recent graduates, and career-pivoting adults who want real skills, real practice, and a clear path from student to forensic professional.
Ready to take the next step? Browse upcoming courses or join the interest list to be first in line when seats open.
Course Curriculum
Forensic Training Unlimited
Train Like a CSI. Get Job-Ready Skills.
At Forensic Training Unlimited, we don’t just lecture—we coach you through real forensic workflows so you can step into the field with confidence.
Career Tracks
Crime Scene Investigation – scene processing, documentation, photography, sketching, evidence collection & packaging.
Fingerprint Identification & Classification – latent development and lifting, pattern analysis, ACE-V fundamentals.
Death Investigation – scene approach, cause vs. manner, postmortem changes, documentation, and reporting.
Forensic Career Marketing – résumé and portfolio building, interview prep, LinkedIn optimization, job-hunt strategy.
What You’ll Gain
Practical, hands-on training and instructor feedback
Field-ready checklists, templates, and practice files
A portfolio of work you can show employers
Proof of completion (certificate) and next-step guidance
Who It’s For
Aspiring CSIs, recent graduates, and career-pivoting adults who want real skills, real practice, and a clear path from student to forensic professional.
Ready to take the next step? Browse upcoming courses or join the interest list to be first in line when seats open.
Highly Recommended Course. Easy to Understand, Informative, Very Well Organized. The Course is Full of Practical and Valuable for Anyone who wants to Enhance their Skills. Really Enjoyed it. Thank you!!
Course Pricing
Single Payment
$129 USD
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Taking this course on positional asphyxiation will expand your knowledge in death investigations
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- Access to Case Studies
- Analyze and Interpret Cases
- Enhance Forensic Skillset to Recognize Potential Cases
