Acclaimed Forensic Scientist Dr. Henry C. Lee Dies At 87

WEST HAVEN, CT — World-renowned forensic scientist Dr. Henry C. Lee died Friday, March 27, at his home in Henderson, Nevada, following a brief illness. He was 87 years old.

His death was announced by his family, in conjunction with the University of New Haven, where he served as a distinguished professor for more than 50 years.

In his final days, Lee was finalizing a book regarding missing-persons investigations that will be published soon, according to the University of New Haven. He authored or co-authored more than 40 books.

“Dr. Lee joined the University of New Haven in 1975 and founded the University’s forensic science program, developing it from a small classroom equipped with a single fingerprint kit into an internationally recognized multi-disciplined academic department considered one of the nation’s best,” according to a news release from the University of New Haven. “In 1998, he founded the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science, and, in 2010, the University opened an ultra-modern home for the institute, a three-story, 15,000 square-foot facility featuring the most cutting-edge forensics investigation technology, including a crime scene center, a high-tech forensic room, a crisis management center, and a state-of-the-art learning center.”

Lee regularly appeared at events on the UNH campus, including giving the commencement address at the university’s Spring Commencement in 2025. He also visited the campus in the fall and spoke with prospective students and families.

Lee served as chief criminalist for the State of Connecticut and director of the Connecticut State Police Forensic Science Laboratory from 1978 to 2000 and was commissioner of the state’s Department of Public Safety and Connecticut State Police from 1998-2000. He was Chief Emeritus for the state of Connecticut’s Division of Scientific Services from 2000 to 2010.

"Dr. Lee was a remarkable individual," University of New Haven President Jens Frederiksen said. "His contributions to our University as well as forensic science and law enforcement are extraordinary and unmatched. His legacy lives on in the generations of students and law enforcement professionals he impacted throughout his brilliant career. We send our deepest condolences to his family and those mourning his passing."

Lee was a consultant for 600 law enforcement agencies and testified more than 1,000 times in both criminal and civil courts, most notably in the O.J. Simpson case. He worked on high-profile cases, including the murder of JonBenét Ramsey, the Helle Crafts woodchipper murder, the Laci Peterson case, the death of Chandra Levy, the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart, 9/11 forensics investigation, and the reinvestigation of the John F. Kennedy assassination.

He hosted a crime-documentary series in 2004 on then Court TV titled, "Trace Evidence: The Case Files of Dr. Henry Lee."

Read more at the University of New Haven here.