A case of a death by explosives: the keys to a proper investigation

Suicidal deaths involving an explosive, unrelated to a terrorist act, are rare. The rarity of such events presents a unique environment for those investigating such a death. We report a case of suicide involving a 29-year-old white male who detonated a firework in his mouth, resulting in massive craniocerebral destruction. He was discovered in his residence shortly after the explosion. Initially, the case was believed to be a fatal gunshot wound by the paramedics and homicide detectives at the scene. Several small pieces of red colored paper and a possible end cap were located throughout the scene. Analysis of the paper and end cap showed trace components consistent with flash powder. The victim had used a pyrotechnic device to commit suicide. Therefore, it is critical for those who investigate deaths be able to identify cases that involve explosives in order to properly collect and analyze the evidence.