[djf]

Someone had asked on another thread about if tiles started separating over California, would they burn up before they hit the ground. I agree with you, they would have a much smaller terminal velocity, and some important evidence might be found west of the main impact zone. Every tile is numbered, and if they started to peel off, they might be able to work their way backwards.

[lepton]

Every tile is numbered, and if they started to peel off, they might be able to work their way backwards.

That is why I would think they would take a photo and gps reading for every piece they find. Location has a notable part in figuring out what happened.