New Forensic Science Collection Highlights Wecht's Career

This generous donation, comprising nearly 120 linear feet of archival treasures, provides invaluable insights into Dr. Wecht's groundbreaking work in the field of forensic science, including his involvement in a number of high-profile cases.

The Cyril H. Wecht Forensic Science Collection includes a wide range of documents, books and audiovisual materials which offer a comprehensive view of his prolific career. Notably, the collection includes numerous materials related to Dr. Wecht's meticulous research into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. It also showcases his investigations into other similar pivotal moments in American history, including the assassinations of Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr.

“Anyone who follows famous criminal investigations or the debate on the JFK assassination will know the name Cyril Wecht. We are excited to have the collection of such a prominent and experienced figure in the world of forensic pathology,” said University Archivist Tom White. “This collection will be valuable to students, researchers, criminologists, historians and anyone trying to understand the assassinations in the 1960s.”

Among the many highlights of this collection are Dr. Wecht's extensive case files involving David Koresh and the Branch Davidians, JonBenet Ramsey, the Menendez brothers, Casey Anthony, Scott Peterson and Chandra Levy. In addition to written and photographic records, the collection boasts a vast selection of videos, showcasing Dr. Wecht's countless media appearances and interviews. The collection also includes a selection of academic materials related to forensic pathology.

“Having first joined the faculty at Duquesne University almost 60 years ago – as a research professor of law in 1964 – my roots on the Bluff run deep,” Wecht said. “I find it particularly fitting that the books, journals, case files and various mementos of my work in the field should find a permanent home here at Duquesne. It is my fervent hope that in the years to come, students and scholars of all ages and from a wide variety of disciplines will come here to search for and find the information and ideas they need to complete their own work, and to better prepare themselves for their own current or future careers.”

The collection is located in the University Archives on the first floor of Gumberg Library. The University will celebrate the new Cyril H. Wecht Forensic Science Collection during a dedication ceremony and reception on Wednesday, November 15 at 4 p.m. The event is open to the public and registration is required.

Duquesne University

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