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The primary responsibility for conducting a crash investigation typically falls to the first responding officer. This individual is usually the first law enforcement personnel to arrive at the scene of the crash and is essential in securing the site, assessing the situation, and collecting initial evidence. They gather critical information such as witness statements, vehicle information, and overall context of the incident, which is foundational for any comprehensive investigation.

While other roles, such as sergeants, traffic unit supervisors, and accident reconstructionists, can play significant parts in the investigation, their involvement usually comes after the initial assessment and evidence gathering done by the first responding officer. The traffic unit supervisor may oversee the investigation and ensure that proper protocols are followed, while accident reconstructionists often analyze the scene in detail later on, but these roles do not replace the immediate responsibilities of the first officer on the scene.