Joseph and his wife Rita, owners of a home in Wexford, are a wealthy elderly couple. Joseph died recently of a sudden death when he was struck by lightning in his metal johnboat while fishing for red fish in the ocean. His body was never recovered. All of Joseph’s children and grandchildren (who happened to be at the house at the time for a Father’s Day celebration,) eagerly awaited the reading of Joseph’s will, since they all knew that he would provide each of his blood relatives with an equal share of his wealth.
When the lawyer arrived to read the will, he noticed that a sum of money was missing from the safe in Joseph’s office. The sum missing was equal to one person’s portion of the estate value. In addition, a small amount of fresh blood was found on the outside of the safe door, presumably belonging to the thief whose hand most likely got caught on the sharp edges of the safe. As the lawyer was announcing this news, the maid rushed into the room and revealed that she had walked into Joseph’s otlice to do her regular dusting and observed the thief quickly slipping out of the patio doors and running away down the beach. She had not seen the face or been able to identify the thief, since he or she wore a mask and a bulky overcoat. She did see, however, that the thief had attached ear lobes sticking out from behind the mask.
The police were called to the home. Upon a1Tival, they immediately ordered blood typing tests on all individuals in the house, and on the blood smear on the safe ( found to be type A-). They also noted the ear lobe type of everyone present.
Short Answer 
The analysis involves understanding and collecting data on two genetic traits, blood type and earlobe attachment, from individuals present at a crime scene. By comparing these traits against evidence, investigators can narrow down potential suspects, aiding in solving the case.
Step 1: Understanding Genetic Traits
Begin by recognizing that the analysis focuses on two crucial genetically determined traits: blood type and earlobe attachment. Each of these traits is defined by genetics and can significantly help in identifying individuals. Blood types, classified by the ABO and Rh systems, play a vital role, especially considering that certain blood types are rarer than others, which can narrow down suspects.
Step 2: Collecting Data from Individuals
Gather information from all individuals present at the scene, particularly their blood types and earlobe types. Compile a list that includes:
- Blood Type (A, B, AB, O)
- Rh Factor (Positive or Negative)
- Earlobe Type (Attached or Free Hanging)
This systematic collection of data sets the stage for a thorough comparison that may yield significant evidence.
Step 3: Analyzing and Comparing Traits
Finally, analyze the collected data to compare individuals’ traits against the evidence found at the crime scene. Focus specifically on matching both the blood type found at the scene and the earlobe type observed. By cross-referencing these genetic traits, investigators aim to identify potential suspects, ultimately leading to solving the mystery.
