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Weapon location following suicidal gunshot wounds
1Bexar County Forensic Science Center, San Antonio, Texas 78229-4565, USA.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|April 20, 1999
Summary
In suicidal gunshot wound cases, the firearm was found near the body in most instances. The gun remained in the deceased's hand in 24% of cases, particularly when lying or sitting.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Ballistics
- Public Health
Background:
- Determining firearm location after suicidal gunshot wounds is crucial for scene investigation.
- Previous studies have varied in their conclusions regarding gun placement post-mortem.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the location of firearms following suicidal gunshot wounds.
- To identify factors influencing whether a gun remains in the deceased's hand.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 574 suicidal gunshot wound deaths investigated by the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office.
- Categorization of gun location: in hand, on/near body (within 30 cm), or >30 cm from body.
Main Results:
- Gun location undetermined in 12.2% (76/574) of cases.
- Firearm found in hand in 24% of cases; on or near body in 69%; >30 cm away in 7%.
- Long guns were less likely to remain in hand (19.5%) compared to handguns (25.7%).
- Lying or sitting positions increased the likelihood of the gun remaining in hand.
Conclusions:
- The majority of firearms are found on or near the body after suicidal gunshot wounds.
- Victim's position (lying/sitting) is a significant factor in gun retention, while gender, wound location, and handgun caliber are not.