ATF's Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory on Wichita State University's Innovation Campus
About the Laboratory
The Forensic Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory is a specialized forensic laboratory focused on the analysis of crime guns and related evidence. Using advanced forensic methods and high-throughput processing, the laboratory is designed to deliver timely, actionable information to investigators and support public safety efforts nationwide.
Located on Wichita State University’s Innovation Campus, the laboratory enhances collaboration among law enforcement, forensic professionals, and academic partners. In coordination with Wichita State University, and its Midwest Criminal Justice Institute, the laboratory also supports a pipeline for students to train alongside forensic professionals, helping prepare the next generation of practitioners for meaningful careers in public safety and forensic science.
The laboratory is beginning phased operations, with capabilities continuing to expand as staffing and resources grow. Full staffing is anticipated in the coming years.
Featured Capabilities
Firearm and Toolmark Examinations
Forensic examiners analyze firearms, cartridge cases, and bullets to identify unique markings and determine whether evidence could have been fired from a specific firearm. Additionally, they perform serial number restoration allowing law enforcement to trace the history of a firearm. These examinations support investigative leads and courtroom testimony.
DNA Analysis of Crime Gun Evidence
Laboratory personnel process biological material recovered from firearms and related evidence to develop DNA profiles. This work can help identify individuals who may have handled or possessed a weapon and provide valuable investigative leads.
Latent Print Examinations
Examiners develop and analyze latent fingerprints from firearms and associated evidence. Identified prints can link individuals to a weapon or crime scene and support investigative and prosecutorial efforts.
Crime Gun Intelligence Support
The laboratory supports the third pillar of crime gun intelligence by rapidly processing evidence and providing information that can help identify links between shootings, firearms, and individuals. This capability strengthens coordination with investigators and contributes to timely, informed decision-making.
National Firearms Examiner Academy (NFEA)
The laboratory will support a second version of the National Firearms Examiner Academy. The NFEA is a national training program providing a standardized training curriculum for education in forensic firearms and toolmark examinations. It will help strengthen this important forensic discipline by supporting training for entry-level firearms examiners from local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
