Missing Link
Training scenario. Every document is fictional. The town of Harlow Bend reports a spike in resident complaints about tap water. Work the packet, then answer.
A · May 2
Utility notice
Routine pipe maintenance on the east main is scheduled for May 3–5. Residents may notice temporary discoloration.
B · May 9
Local news report
“Residents say their water turned brown last week. The utility has not commented.” Cites three residents by first name.
C · May 1–12
Complaint log
May 1–2: 1 complaint. May 3–6: 41 complaints, 38 from the east side. May 7–12: 4 complaints.
D · May 10
Council member post
“The new chemical plant upriver is poisoning our families. Share before they delete this.” No sources linked.
E · Sampled May 8
State lab results
Iron slightly elevated at two east-side taps; lead, nitrates and industrial solvents below detection limits.
Which statement is directly supported by the packet?
Are Document B and Document D independent confirmation of contamination?
Put the evidence in order. What does the timeline suggest?
What remains unknown?
Which evidence would most increase confidence in the maintenance explanation?