Epifluorescence analysis of hacksaw marks on bone: highlighting unique individual characteristics

Analysis of dismemberment trauma aims at identifying characteristics of false starts and complete sections in order to identify the class of saw. Nevertheless, determination of the individual weapon remains a challenging task. We attempted to determine the unique characteristics of different blades within the same class of saws using epifluorescence macroscopy, a non-invasive technique, in order to establish an individual injury profile. Two hacksaw blades of identical characteristics (size, set and shape of the teeth) were used to create false starts and complete sections on partially defleshed pig bones. These wounds were then analyzed using epifluorescence macroscopy. Bone lesion analysis determined characteristics that were common to both blades, corresponding to size, raker set and ripcut shape. The data collected made it possible to reconstruct the trauma. Furthermore, we highlighted specific characteristics of each blade in both false starts and complete sections. These characteristics mainly related to the shape and profile of the kerf, the consistency of cut and type of fluorescent wall striations. The sum of the information collected in examination of dismemberment wounds can identify, through comparative analysis, the individual weapon responsible for the imprints observed on the bones.