SECRETS OF A HOMICIDE: ACOUSTICS - EPIPOLAR GEOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF AMATEUR FILMS RELATED TO ACOUSTICS EVIDENCE IN THE JOHN F. KENNEDY ASSASSINATION

APPENDIX III

JFK ASSASSINATION AMATEUR FILM SYNCHRONIZATION TIMELINE

A synchronized timeline chart covering 49.29 seconds surrounding the assassination was assembled to show the relationship between the various amateur films used in this study. The vertical format displays each film in chronological order beginning 39.84 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 9.45 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of each camera is displayed under the name of the amateur photographer associated with each film clip. [Amateur Film Synchronization Timeline]

This timeline reflects all of the points of synchronization demonstrated in the previous appendices as well as all camera stops and film splices denoted in the film breakdown that follows the chart. The error ratio of this analysis is +/- one frame.

(SEC-1) Robert Hughes Film – Camera Frame Rate: 18.3 fps

The Robert Hughes film consists of 18 sequences, 8 pre-assassination and 10 post assassination scenes. Sequence 5 is the first that depicts the presidential limousine, which appears on Main Street, approaching the Houston Street corner. Sequences 6, 7 and 8 depict the limousine as it turns from Main onto Houston, travels north on Houston, and turns onto Elm Street. These three sequences encompass frames H259 through H680 and are spread across a time period of 32.84 seconds; beginning 39.84 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 7.0 seconds before the head shot. The frame rate of the Hughes camera, relative to Zapruder’s camera, was determined to be 18.3 frames-per-second. There are 3 camera stops and 2 splices between Hughes frames H259-H680:

H315-H316 Splice (3 frames missing)

Three frames were found to be missing at the point of a film splice between Hughes frames H315-H316. This was determined by comparing the progression of the limousine shadow in relation to the crosswalk at Main and Houston Streets during the frame sequences immediately before and after the splice with the progression of the limousine shadow between frames H315-H316. The result shows 3 frames to be missing between H315-H316. [Exhibit 78]

H525-H526 (131 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 131 frames between Hughes frames H525-H526. The camera stops are easily identified in all films by a break in the action accompanied by a single, slightly over exposed frame (the result of the camera mechanism taking a fraction of a second to reach operating speed, thereby causing the first frame to be exposed to light longer than normal) marking the beginning of the sequence that follows the camera stop. In this instance, restart frame H526 was slightly overexposed. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Dorman film and calculating the offset period. Hughes sequence H526-H535 depicts the presidential limousine turning from Houston onto Elm Street. Dorman sequence D201-D209 also depicts the limousine during this same period. By comparing the relationship of the limousine to the left lane road stripes, it was determined that Hughes frame H529 was the equivalent of Dorman frame D204. Hughes frame H526 (the restart frame) was therefore exposed 17.93 seconds before the head shot. Since Hughes frame H525 was exposed 25.16 seconds before the head shot and Hughes frame H526 was exposed 17.93 seconds before the head shot, then 7.23 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 7.18 seconds (7.23 – 0.055 [1 frame] = 7.18) which equates to 131 frames. (7.18 x 18.3 = 131) [Exhibit 79]

H613-H614 (37 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 37 frames between Hughes frames H613-H614. Frame H614 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the 2.19 second sequence encompassing Hughes frames H614 through H648 with the Zapruder film and calculating the offset period between Hughes frame H613 and H614. As demonstrated earlier, Hughes frame H648 synchronizes to Zapruder frame Z150. Since Zapruder frame Z150 was exposed 8.91 seconds before the head shot and Hughes sequence H614 through H648 is 2.19 seconds in length, then Hughes frame H614 was exposed 11.10 seconds (8.91+2.19 = 11.10) before the head shot. Since the Hughes frame H613 was exposed 13.16 seconds before the head shot and Hughes frame H614 was exposed 11.10 seconds before the head shot, then 2.06 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 2.01 seconds (2.06 – 0.055 [1 frame] = 2.01) which equates to 37 frames. (2.01 x 18.3 = 37)

These calculations are consistent with the relative speed of the motorcade. This can be demonstrated by examining the trajectory and speed of the National Press Pool Car, the ninth car in the motorcade, during this period:

(a) The National Press Pool Car’s speed immediately prior to Hughes frame H613 was calculated to be 11.44 feet/second (7.8 mph).

The National Press Pool Car was a 1960 Chevrolet Bel Air which had an overall length of 210.8 inches (17.6 feet). [146] The National Press Pool Car was found to traverse its own overall length (17.6 feet) between Hughes frames H577-H605 – a total of 28 frames. Dividing the speed of the Hughes camera (18.3 frames/second) into the frame count yields a time of 1.53 seconds. This calculates to a speed of 11.50 feet/second (7.8 mph). [Exhibit 80]

(b) The National Press Pool Car’s speed between Zapruder frames Z185-Z207 was calculated to be 14.67 feet/second (9.9 mph).

An enlarged and stabilized Zapruder film sequence was created for this analysis. The National Press Pool Car appears above the concrete wall in the background of Zapruder sequence Z185-207. During that period, the National Press Pool Car traverses its own overall length of 17.6 feet in 22 frames. Dividing the speed of the Zapruder camera (18.3 frames/second) into the frame count yields a time of 1.2 seconds. This calculates to a speed of 14.67 feet/second (9.9 mph) [Exhibit 81]

(c) A computer model of the position of the National Press Pool Car at Hughes frames H613 and H614 shows that it traverses a distance of 24 feet.

A computer model of the National Press Pool Car was positioned to match Hughes frame H613 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to a line-of-sight drawn between Hughes’ camera and the southwest corner of the Dal-Tex Building. A computer model of the National Press Pool Car was also positioned to match Hughes frame H614 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to that same line-of-sight. [Exhibit 82] The distance between these two positions (rear bumper-to-rear bumper) was measured at 24 feet.

(d) The National Press Pool Car would have traversed the 24 feet between Hughes frame H613 and H614 in 2.06 seconds traveling at an estimated speed of 11.65 feet/second (7.9 mph).

The estimated speed of the National Press Pool Car during this period was an average speed based on the synchronization of Hughes frames H613 and H614 as described above. Since the Hughes frame H613 was exposed 13.16 seconds before the head shot and Hughes frame H614 was exposed 11.10 seconds before the head shot, then 2.06 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Dividing the distance of 24 feet by the time period of 2.06 seconds yields an estimated speed of 11.65 feet/second (7.9 mph). [Exhibit 83]

(e) A computer model of the position of the National Press Pool Car at Hughes frame H614 and Zapruder frame Z185 shows that it traverses a distance of 57.24 feet.

A computer model of the National Press Pool Car was positioned to match Hughes frame H614. [See (c) above] A computer model of the National Press Pool Car was also positioned to match Zapruder frame Z185 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to a line-of-sight drawn between Zapruder’s camera and the windows on the west wall of the Records Building. [Exhibit 84] The distance between these two positions (rear bumper-to-rear bumper) was measured at 57.24 feet.

(f) The National Press Pool Car would have traversed the 57.24 feet between Hughes frame H614 and Zapruder frame Z185 in 4.10 seconds traveling at an estimated speed of 13.96 feet/second (9.5 mph).

The estimated speed of the National Press Pool Car during this period was an average speed based on the synchronization of Hughes frame H614 as described above. Since the Hughes frame H614 was exposed 11.10 seconds before the head shot and Zapruder frame Z185 was exposed 7.0 seconds before the head shot, then 4.10 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Dividing the distance of 57.24 feet by the time period of 4.10 seconds yields an estimated speed of 13.96 feet/second (9.5 mph). [Exhibit 85]

The above calculations show the National Press Pool Car traveling at speeds consistent with the relative speed of the motorcade as it traveled north on Houston Street - 7.8 mph (H577-H605), 7.9 mph (H613-H614), 9.5 mph (H614-Z185) and 9.9 mph (Z185-Z207).

In conclusion, the six calculations above demonstrate that a 37 frame camera stop between Hughes frames H613-H614 maintains the trajectory and speed of the National Press Pool Car on Houston Street and is consistent with the known relative speed of the motorcade procession.

H630-H631 (6 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 6 frames between Hughes frames H630-H631. Frame H631 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by comparing the progression of Camera Car 3 between Hughes frames H623-H630 with the progression of Camera Car 3 between Hughes frames H630-H631. Using lines-of-sight projected between the Hughes camera and objects in the background, it can be seen that Camera Car 3 traverses the same distance between Hughes Frames H623-H630 as it does between Hughes frames H630-H631. Since the elapsed time between Hughes frames H623-H630 is 7 frames, the length of the estimated camera stoppage between Hughes frames H630-H631 is 6 frames. [Exhibit 86]

H648-H649 Splice (3 frames missing)

Three frames were found to be missing at the point of a film splice between Hughes frames H648-H649. This was determined by comparing the progression of Dallas police officer D.V. Harkness as he crosses the frame. The result shows 3 frames to be missing between H648-H649. [Exhibit 87]

(SEC-2) Marie Muchmore Film – Camera Frame Rate: 18.5 fps

The Marie Muchmore film consists of 7 sequences; 6 pre-assassination, and 1 during the shooting. Sequence 5 is the first that depicts the presidential limousine, which appears turning from Main onto Houston Street. Sequence 6 depicts the limousine heading north on Houston followed by the Vice Presidential Car and the Vice Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car. Sequence 7 depicts the presidential limousine on Elm street during the shooting and is the equivalent of Zapruder frames Z272 through Z337. These last three sequences encompass frames M242 through M591 and are spread across a time period of 37.6 seconds; beginning 36.29 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 1.31 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Muchmore camera was determined by the FBI to be 18.5 frames-per-second. There are 2 camera stops between Muchmore frames M242-M591:

M426-M427 (23 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 23 frames between Muchmore frames M426-M427. Frame M427 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Dorman film and calculating the offset period. An examination of four films demonstrates:

(a) Muchmore frame M426 was found to have been exposed 26.39 seconds before the head shot.

Texas Governor John B. Connally can be seen lifting his hand in a wave in the Muchmore, Hughes, and Nix films as the limousine traverses the crosswalk on Houston at Main. By comparing the position of Connally’s hand as depicted in these three films, it was determined that Muchmore frame M338 was the equivalent of Nix frame N040 and Hughes frame H415. [Exhibit 88] These three frames synchronize to a moment 31.15 seconds before the head shot. The offset period between Muchmore frame M338 and M426 is 4.76 seconds (426-338 = 88 ÷ 18.5 fps = 4.76), which demonstrates that Muchmore frame M426 was exposed 26.39 seconds (31.15 – 4.76 = 26.39) before the head shot.

(b) Muchmore frame M427 was found to have been exposed 25.10 seconds before the head shot.

A computer model of the presidential limousine was positioned to match Muchmore frame M427 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to two lines-of-sight drawn between Muchmore’s camera and the northwest corner of the Dallas Records Building, as well as to the windows on the west wall of the Dallas Records Building. A line-of-sight was then plotted on the computer model between the Dorman camera and the left-front red flasher of the presidential limousine. That line was then extended until it intersected the west wall of the Dallas County Courthouse Building. [Exhibit 89] To determine the specific Dorman frame which corresponds to Muchmore frame M427, a composite mosaic image was created from multiple Dorman frames. A red line matching the computer plotted line-of-sight between the Dorman camera and the west wall of the Dallas County Courthouse was superimposed onto the mosaic image. A sequence of Dorman frames was then superimposed onto the mosaic image until a frame was found that matched the computer plotted position of the limousine. It was determined that Dorman frame D111, which was exposed 25.10 seconds before the head shot, was the equivalent of Muchmore M427. [Exhibit 90]

Since Muchmore frame M426 was exposed 26.39 seconds before the head shot and Muchmore frame M427 was exposed 25.10 seconds before the head shot, then 1.29 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 1.24 seconds (1.29 – 0.054 [1 frame] = 1.24) which equates to 23 frames (1.24 x 18.5 = 23).

M525-M526 (424 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 424 frames between Muchmore frames M525-M526. Frame M526 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Zapruder film and calculating the offset period. Muchmore frame M567 graphically depicts the fatal head shot and therefore is the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z313. The offset period between Muchmore frame M526 and M567 is 2.22 seconds (567-526 = 41 ÷ 18.5 fps = 2.22), which demonstrates that Muchmore frame M526 was exposed at the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z272, or 2.22 seconds before the head shot.

Since Muchmore frame M525 was exposed 25.16 seconds before the head shot and Muchmore frame M526 was exposed 2.22 seconds before the head shot, then 22.94 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 22.89 seconds (22.94 – 0.054 [1 frame] = 22.89) which equates to 424 frames (22.89 x 18.5 = 424).

(SEC-3) Elsie Dorman Film – Camera Frame Rate: 16.8 fps

The Elsie Dorman film consists of 5 sequences; 3 pre-assassination, 1 during the shooting, and 1 post assassination. Sequence 1 is the first that depicts the presidential limousine, which appears turning from Main onto Houston Street. Sequences 2 and 3 depict the limousine heading north on Houston and making the turn onto Elm Street. Sequence 4 depicts spectators standing on the south side of Elm Street as well as a glimpse of the Vice Presidential car and its Secret Service follow-up car. Sequence 5 depicts a glimpse of Mayor Cabell’s car, spectators at the corner of southwest corner of Elm and Houston Streets, and two congressional cars and a motorcycle officer approaching the Houston and Elm Street intersection. These five sequences encompass frames D001 through D496 and are spread across a time period of 38.81 seconds; beginning 33.56 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 5.25 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Dorman camera, relative to Zapruder’s camera, was determined to be 16.8 frames-per-second. There are 4 camera stops between Dorman frames D001-D496:

D045-D046 (32 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 32 frames between Dorman frames D045-D046. Frame D046 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Hughes film and calculating the offset period. Dorman sequence D001-D046 depicts the presidential limousine turning from Main onto Houston Street. Hughes sequence H370-H455 and Muchmore sequence M292-M378 also depict the limousine during this same period. An examination of all three films demonstrates:

(a) Dorman frame D045 was found to have been exposed 30.96 seconds before the head shot.

By comparing the relationship of the presidential limousine to the southern-most crosswalk on Houston at Main, and the pattern of the red emergency flashers on the limousine as depicted in the Dorman and Muchmore films, it was determined that Dorman frame D017 was the equivalent of Hughes frame H388 and Muchmore frame M310. [Exhibit 91] These three frames synchronize to a moment 32.63 seconds before the head shot. The offset period between Dorman frame D017 and D045 is 1.67 seconds (45-17 = 28 ÷ 16.8 fps = 1.67), which demonstrates that Dorman frame D045 was exposed 30.96 seconds before the head shot.

(b) Dorman frame D046 was found to have been exposed 28.97 seconds before the head shot.

By comparing the relationship of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car to the northern-most crosswalk on Houston at Main, and motorcycle escort B.J. “Billy” Martin (riding on the inner left side of the limousine) to the left lane road stripe, it was determined that Dorman frame D046 was the equivalent of Hughes frame H455, which was exposed 28.97 seconds before the head shot. [Exhibit 92]

Since Dorman frame D045 was exposed 30.96 seconds before the head shot and Hughes frame H455 was exposed 28.97 seconds before the head shot, then 1.99 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 1.93 seconds (1.99 – 0.060 [1 frame] = 1.93) which equates to 32 frames (1.93 x 16.8 = 32).

D191-D192 (30 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 30 frames between Dorman frames D191-D192. Frame D192 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by examining the trajectory and speed of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car, the fifth car in the motorcade, between Dorman frames D191 and D196; then using the position and speed of the vehicle to calculate the elapsed time between those two points. Subtracting the elapsed time between D192 and D196 revealed the total length of time the camera was stopped between Dorman frames D191 and D192. The following steps were taken:

(a) The Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car’s speed immediately prior to Dorman frame D191 was calculated to be 14.13 feet/second (9.6 mph).

Since the Dorman film shows the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car to be moving at the same speed as the presidential limousine, the limousine was used to calculate the speed of the Secret Service vehicle. The presidential limousine was found to traverse its own wheelbase (13 feet) between Dorman frames D157.5 and D173 – a total of 15.5 frames. Dividing the speed of the Dorman camera (16.8 frames/second) into the frame count yields a time of 0.92 seconds. This calculates to a speed of 14.13 feet/second (9.6 mph). [Exhibit 93]

(b) The Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car’s speed immediately after Dorman frame D196 was calculated to be 9.90 feet/second (6.8 mph).

Again, because the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car was found to be moving at the same speed as the presidential limousine, the limousine was used to calculate the speed of the Secret Service vehicle. Towner frames T006 through T032, which depict the presidential limousine beginning its turn onto Elm Street, shows the limousine moving at a speed of 9.90 feet/second (6.8 mph). [See Appendix I, Exhibit 27]

(c) The Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car’s average speed between Dorman frames D191 and D196 was estimated to be 12.02 feet/second (8.2 mph).

Adding the estimated speed of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car prior to Dorman frame D191 (14.13 feet/second) to the estimated speed of the Secret Service vehicle after Dorman frame D196 (9.90 feet/second) and dividing the result by two calculates to an estimated average speed of 12.02 feet/second (8.2 mph) between Dorman frames D191 and D196.

(d) A computer model of the position of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car at Dorman frames D191 and D196 shows that it traverses a distance of 26.13 feet.

A composite mosaic image was created from multiple Dorman frames to aid in determining the location of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car at Dorman frames D191 and D196. A computer model of the Secret Service car was positioned to match Dorman frame D191 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to a line-of-sight drawn between Dorman’s camera and the base windows on the west wall of the Dallas County Courthouse Building. A computer model of the Secret Service car was also positioned to match Dorman frame D196 by noting the vehicle’s relationship to a similar line-of-sight. [Exhibit 94] The distance between these two positions (rear bumper-to-rear bumper) was measured at 26.13 feet.

(e) The Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car would have traversed the 26.13 feet between Dorman frames D191 and D196 in 2.17 seconds traveling at an estimated speed of 12.02 feet/second (8.2 mph).

The estimated speed of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car during this period was an average speed based on the speed of the presidential limousine as described above. The trajectory and speed of the Secret Service car demonstrates that 2.17 seconds elapsed between the exposure of Dorman frames D191 and D196. [Exhibit 95] Subtracting the 0.30 second difference between Dorman frames D196 and D191 (5 frames ÷ 16.8 fps = 0.30) yields a total elapsed time of 1.87 seconds. Multiplying the elapsed time by the frame rate of the Dorman camera yields an actual frame count of 31 frames (1.87 x 16.8 = 31) between Dorman frame D191 and D192. Therefore, the Dorman camera was stopped for 30 frames between the two exposures.

In conclusion, the five calculations above demonstrate that a 30 frame camera stop between Dorman frames D191-D192 maintains the trajectory and speed of the Presidential Secret Service Follow-Up Car on Houston Street and is consistent with the known relative speed of the motorcade procession.

D335-D336 (49 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 49 frames between Dorman frames D335-D336. Frame D336 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Zapruder film and calculating the offset period. Dorman sequence D336-D375 contains images of Hugh Betzner Jr., (D345-D355) lowering his camera after taking a photograph known to have been exposed at the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z186. [See Appendix II, Synchronizing the Dorman and Zapruder Films] Dorman frames D345-D355 synchronize to Zapruder frames Z195-Z206, which also shows Betzner lowering his camera in the sprocket area of the image. Since Dorman frame D345 is the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z195, Dorman frame D345 was exposed 6.45 seconds (313-195 = 118 ÷ 18.3 = 6.45) before the head shot. Since the difference between Dorman frame D336 (the beginning of the sequence) and Dorman frame D345 is 9 frames (0.536 seconds), Dorman frame D336 would be the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z185 (0.536 x 18.3 = 10; Z195 – 10 = 185). Therefore, Dorman frame D336 was exposed 7.00 seconds (313-185 = 128 ÷ 18.3 = 7.00) before the head shot. Since Dorman frame D335 was exposed 9.97 seconds before the head shot and Dorman frame D336 was exposed 7.00 seconds before the head shot, then 2.97 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 2.91 seconds (2.97 – 0.060 [1 frame] = 2.91) which equates to 49 frames (2.91 x 16.8 = 49).

D375-D376 (45 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 44 frames between Dorman frames D375-D376. Frame D376 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. The total length of the stoppage was determined by synchronizing the restart frame to the Zapruder film using the Dave Wiegman film and calculating the offset period. A detailed geometric analysis of the three films [See Appendix II, The Wiegman Film, Exhibits 72-76] found that Dorman frame D376 is the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z278. Therefore, Dorman frame D376 was exposed 1.91 seconds (313-278 = 35 ÷ 18.3 = 1.91) before the head shot. A detailed analysis of Dorman sequence D336-D375 also found that D375 is the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z228 [See above] and therefore, Dorman frame D375 was exposed 4.65 seconds before the fatal head shot. Since Dorman frame D375 was exposed 4.65 seconds before the head shot and Dorman frame D376 was exposed 1.91 seconds before the head shot, then 2.74 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 2.68 seconds (2.74 – 0.060 [1 frame] = 2.68) which equates to 45 frames (2.68 x 16.8 = 45).

(SEC-4) Orville Nix Film – Camera Frame Rate: 18.5 fps

The Orville Nix film consists of 3 sequences; 1 pre-assassination, 1 during the shooting, and 1 post assassination. Sequence 1 depicts the presidential limousine completing its turn from Main onto Houston Street and continuing northbound trailed by the Secret Service Follow-Up Car and the Vice Presidential Car. Sequence 2 depicts the presidential limousine on Elm street during the shooting and is the equivalent of Zapruder frames Z291 through Z411. Sequence 3 depicts the north side of Elm Street shortly after the shooting. The first two sequences encompass frames N001 through N296 and are spread across a time period of 38.59 seconds; beginning 33.26 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 5.33 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Nix camera was determined by the FBI to be 18.5 frames-per-second. There is 1 camera stop between Nix frames N001-N296:

N174-N175 (419 frame camera stop)

The camera was stopped for a period of 419 frames between Nix frames N174-N175. Frame N175 was slightly overexposed, indicating the camera restart. An examination of four films demonstrates:

(a) Nix frame N174 was found to have been exposed 23.91 seconds before the head shot.

Governor Connally can be seen lifting his hand in a wave in the Nix, Muchmore, and Hughes films as the limousine traverses the crosswalk on Houston at Main. By comparing the position of Connally’s hand as depicted in these three films, it was determined that Nix frame N040 was the equivalent of Hughes frame H415 and Muchmore frame M338. [See Exhibit 88] These three frames synchronize to a moment 31.15 seconds before the head shot. The offset period between Nix frame N040 and N174 is 7.24 seconds (174 - 40 = 134 ÷ 18.5 fps = 7.24), which demonstrates that Nix frame N174 was exposed 23.91 seconds (31.15 – 7.24 = 23.91) before the head shot.

(b) Nix frame N175 was found to have been exposed 1.20 seconds before the head shot.

Nix frame N197 graphically depicts the fatal head shot and therefore is the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z313. The offset period between Nix frame N175 and N197 is 1.20 seconds (197 - 175 = 22 ÷ 18.5 fps = 1.20), which demonstrates that Nix frame N175 was exposed at the equivalent of Zapruder frame Z291, or 1.20 seconds before the head shot.

Since Nix frame N174 was exposed 23.91 seconds before the head shot and Nix frame N175 was exposed 1.20 seconds before the head shot, then 22.71 seconds elapsed between the two exposures. Hence, the camera was stopped for 22.66 seconds (22.71 – 0.054 [1 frame] = 22.66) which equates to 419 frames (22.66 x 18.5 = 419).

(SEC-5) Tina Towner Film – Camera Frame Rate: 22.8 fps

The Tina Towner film consists of 2 sequences; 1 pre-assassination, and 1 post assassination. Sequence 1 depicts the presidential limousine turning from Houston onto Elm Street and continuing a short distance down Elm. Sequence 2 depicts the north side of Elm Street a few minutes after the shooting. The first sequence encompasses frames T001 through T160 and covers a time period of 7.27 seconds; beginning 17.93 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 10.66 seconds before the head shot. The frame rate of the Towner camera, relative to Zapruder’s camera, was determined to be 22.8 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops and 1 splice between Towner frames T084-T085:

T084-T085 Splice (7 frames missing)

Eight frames were found to be missing at the point of a film splice between Towner frames T084-T085. This was determined by using a composite image to examine the progression of the presidential limousine as it traverses the Elm and Houston intersection. The result shows 7 frames to be missing at the point of the splice. [See Appendix I, Exhibit 24]

(SEC-6) F.M. “Mark” Bell Film – Camera Frame Rate: 19.0 fps

The F.M. “Mark” Bell film consists of 14 sequences; 3 pre-assassination and 11 post assassination. The third sequence depicts the presidential limousine passing in front of the Texas School Book Depository after turning from Houston onto Elm Street, and was the only sequence used in this study. The third sequence encompasses frames numbered B001 through B060 and covers a time period of 3.16 seconds; beginning 14.69 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 11.58 seconds before the head shot. The frame rate of the Bell camera, relative to Zapruder’s camera, was determined to be 19.0 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops or splices during the third sequence identified as Bell frames B001 through B060.

(SEC-7) John Martin, Jr., Film – Camera Frame Rate: 22.8 fps

The John Martin, Jr., film consists of 9 sequences; 6 pre-assassination and 3 post assassination. Sequence 1 depicts the lead motorcycles turning from Main Street onto Houston Street. Sequences 2 and 3 depict the lead vehicle driven by Dallas Police Chief Jesse Curry turning from Main onto Houston Street. Sequences 4 and 5 depict the presidential limousine as it turns off of Main Street and travels north on Houston Street. Sequence 6 depicts the presidential limousine passing in front of the Texas School Book Depository, and eyewitness Rosemary Willis running alongside the south side of Elm Street. Sequences 7, 8, and 9 depict events in Dealey Plaza following the assassination. The sixth sequence encompasses frames MN207 through MN278 and covers a time period of 3.15 seconds; beginning 12.54 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 9.45 seconds before the head shot. The frame rate of the Martin camera, relative to Zapruder’s camera, was determined to be 22.8 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops or splices between Martin frames MN207-MN278.

(SEC-8) Abraham Zapruder Film – Camera Frame Rate: 18.3 fps

The Abraham Zapruder film consists of 3 sequences; 2 pre-assassination and 1 during the shooting. Sequence 1 depicts Marilyn Sitzman standing near Charles and Beatrice Hester, who are seated on a park bench. Sequence 2 depicts the three lead motorcycles turning from Houston onto Elm Street, one-half block ahead of the motorcade lead car. Sequence 3 depicts the presidential limousine just after it had completed its turn onto Elm Street. The third sequence encompasses frames Z133 through Z486 and covers a time period of 19.29 seconds; beginning 9.84 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 9.45 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Zapruder camera was determined by the FBI to be 18.3 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops and 2 splices between Zapruder frames Z133-Z486:

Z154-Z157 Splice (2 frames missing)

Two frames are missing at the point of a film splice between Zapruder frames Z154-Z157. Three first-generation copies made before the original film was damaged shows that 2 frames are missing at the point of the splice. [147]

Z207-Z212 Splice (4 frames missing)

Four frames are missing at the point of a film splice between Zapruder frames Z207-Z212. Three first-generation copies made before the original film was damaged shows that 4 frames are missing at the point of the splice. [148]

(SEC-9) Dave Wiegman Film – Camera Frame Rate: 24 fps

The Dave Wiegman film consists of 22 sequences; 10 pre-assassination, 1 during the shooting, and 11 post-assassination. Sequence 11 depicts the motorcade in Dealey Plaza during the shooting and is the focus of this study. The sequence begins when Camera Car 1, in which Wiegman is riding, is in front of the Texas School Book Depository. With the camera running, Wiegman leaps from the car and dashes up toward the pergola on the north side of Elm Street, where he films Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hester falling to the ground. The portion of the Sequence 11 used in this study encompasses frames numbered W001 through W316 and covers a time period of 13.17 seconds; beginning 3.66 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 9.45 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Wiegman news camera was 24 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops or splices during the portion of the eleventh sequence identified as Wiegman frames W001 through W316.

(SEC-10) Charles L. Bronson Film – Camera Frame Rate: 12 fps

The Charles Bronson film consists of 13 sequences; 3 pre-assassination, 1 during the shooting, and 9 post-assassination. Sequence 1 depicts ambulance attendants administering to an epileptic on Houston Street about 6 minutes before the shooting. The sixth floor window of the Texas School Book Depository is visible during this sequence. Sequence 2 depicts several motorcycle escorts turning from Main on Houston Street. Sequence 3 depicts the presidential limousine traveling north on Houston Street. Sequence 4 depicts the presidential limousine on Elm Street during the shooting and is the focus of this study. Sequences 5 through 13 depict various views of crowds in Dealey Plaza on Saturday, November 23, 1963. Sequence 4 encompasses frames numbered BN243 through BN268 and covers a time period of 2.09 seconds; beginning 0.92 seconds before the fatal head shot and ending 1.17 seconds after the head shot. The frame rate of the Bronson camera was 12 frames-per-second. There are no camera stops or splices between Bronson frames BN243-BN268.

While the Bronson film is one of only four known films that depict portions of the shooting sequence, Bronson was standing approximately 221 feet from the limousine’s position on Elm Street and consequently was unable to capture images of any great detail.

The four films that capture portions of the shooting sequence are Zapruder, Nix, Muchmore and Bronson. All four films depict the fatal head shot. The four individual frames which depict the fatal head shot - Muchmore (M567), Bronson (BN254), Nix (N197) and Zapruder (Z313) [Exhibit 96] - contain enough information to triangulate the position of the limousine as well as determine the location of each photographer. This was accomplished by projecting lines-of-sight between the photographers and fixed objects seen in the background of each individual frame. [Exhibit 97]

A synchronized timeline chart covering the 7.55 seconds surrounding the fatal head shot was assembled to show the relationship between the four only known amateur films that captured the event. [Amateur Film Synchronization Timeline - Fatal Head Shot Sequence]

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Footnotes

Gunnell, John, Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1946-1975, Revised 4th Edition, Krause Publications, 2002, p.172 [RETURN]

Trask, Richard B., Pictures of the Pain, Yeoman Press, 1994, p.97 [RETURN]

Trask, Richard B., Pictures of the Pain, Yeoman Press, 1994, pp.96-97 [RETURN]