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Accidental electrocution during autoeroticism: a shocking case.

Jennifer C Schott1, Gregory J Davis, John C Hunsaker

  • 1Division of Forensic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298, USA. jschott@uky.edu

The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|February 27, 2003
PubMed
Summary
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This case study details an 18-year-old man who died from accidental self-electrocution during an autoerotic act. The investigation explores typical and atypical autoerotic deaths.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Pathology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Autoerotic death is a rare phenomenon often associated with sexual asphyxiation or other risky practices.
  • Understanding the nuances of autoerotic fatalities is crucial for accurate forensic investigation.

Observation:

  • An 18-year-old male was discovered deceased, wearing brassieres with electrical apparatus attached to the chest.
  • The scene included erotic literature, suggesting a sexual context for the death.
  • Autopsy confirmed severe burns on the mammary regions consistent with electrocution.

Findings:

  • The cause of death was determined to be accidental self-electrocution.
  • The specific circumstances presented an atypical variation of autoerotic death.
  • The electrical setup involved household current, washers, and a bifid cord.

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Implications:

  • This case highlights the diverse and sometimes unusual methods individuals may employ in autoerotic practices.
  • Forensic pathologists must consider electrocution as a potential mechanism in autoerotic fatalities.
  • Further discussion on typical versus atypical autoerotic deaths can aid in medicolegal death investigations.