Gibbs was down in Autopsy faster than the speed of light, or so it seemed to the man working there. Was he alive when they cut it from him? The question was out of the agent's mouth before the doors had finished closing.
Yes, I believe he was. Either that or it was cut immediately after he was killed. Ducky was about to explain that there was a very short window after death where the difference would be difficult to determine without a more thorough examination when Gibbs' cut him off with a gesture.
All right, how did it get here?I've sent all the packaging materials and the note that came with it up to Abby for processing. This was one request he had anticipated and had called Abby immediately upon discovering the contents of the package. Apparently that wasn't all Gibbs was interested in, however.
Great. Now, how did it get here? Did the mailroom deliver it? Was it here when you got in? Something else? What? Gibbs snapped out the questions like gunshots.
Well, I don't know. It was on my desk when I got in. And the mailroom doesn't deliver my mail until after I'm in. As the coroner finished speaking, Gibbs was already on his cell phone.
Yeah, McGee! Pull the security tapes for Autopsy for the last twenty-four hours. We've had an intruder.Jethro, what can you tell me about the owner of this thumb? Ducky leaned over the dismembered digit and examined it closely, yet again.
I assumed you knew, Duck. You said it was from our missing missile specialist.I was only quoting what was in the note that came with the thumb. I don't even know his name. The doctor turned around to face his friend.
What exactly did that note say? Gibbs looked at Ducky sharply.
Let me see Here's proof that your missing missile specialist is still alive. Good luck finding him.' Ducky inclined his head as he recalled reading the words printed on the page right before he called Director Morrow.
The man's name was Petty Officer Second Dan Michaelson, assigned to our carrier group in the Gulf. He was reported UA after he failed to return from a seventy-two. It was investigated, a few unidentified prints were lifted from his hotel room but the case stalled for lack of evidence. Gibbs had leaned against one of the silver tables as he talked. Now he straightened up, clearly preparing to leave.
I dare say it'll be reopened now, Ducky commented. Do you want to take the thumb up to Abby to see if she can get any prints off of it as well? Besides the owner's, that is.
Gibbs stopped, surprised. Yeah, Duck. Excellent idea.