Forensic science students are carefully examining a homicide at an Oshawa cabin as part of a new training program at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology.
The crime scene home, officially unveiled on Wednesday, allows CSI hopefuls to gain hands-on training and develop critical investigation skills.
Students analyze a dead body (a mannequin), blood splatter and other clues to try to solve the crimes.
"The point of the house is to train them in the correct techniques for collecting, packaging and preserving evidence ... so they can then send it back to a forensic laboratory for analysis," Professor Shari Forbes told CTV's Matet Nebres.
Students are taught how to collect and analyze DNA, fingerprints, footwear impressions and tool marks.
The university says the crime scene house is the first of its kind on Canada.
Investigators working Wednesday's mock crime scene, which appeared to be indicate a violent struggle had taken place, say they're gaining invaluable experience from the facility.
"I love it. I think it's a very good opportunity because I was thinking about going to a
different (school), but this is more hands-on, so I really enjoy it," said one student.
Other crimes that can be staged at or near the crime scene house include shootings, break-and-enters, suspicious deaths and hit-and-run accidents, according to a university press release.
There are about 100 students enrolled in the university's forensic science program, but the school says interest has soared, partly because of the popularity of the CSI TV series.
Wednesday's event also included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours and sample evidence collection demonstrations.
With a report from CTV's Matet Nebres
