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Suicidal tandem bullets to the heart with subsequent embolization - a case report
Fernando Fortes Picoli1,2, Mayara Barbosa Viandelli Mundim-Picoli3, André Montanini Alves4
1Department of Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Dentistry, Scientific Police of Goiás / Federal University of Goiás, Av. Atílio Correia Lima, n. 1.223, Cidade Jardim, 74425-030, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology
|June 20, 2020
Summary
This study details a rare tandem bullet phenomenon case, where two bullets fired nose-to-base caused a single entrance wound. Autopsy revealed two bullets embolized in the aorta, complicating the suicide investigation.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Terminal Ballistics
- Forensic Ballistics
Background:
- The tandem bullet phenomenon, where two bullets travel nose-to-base, presents unique challenges in forensic investigations.
- A single entrance wound with multiple projectiles is a classic, yet confusing, indicator.
Observation:
- A case of suicide involving a 0.32 caliber revolver is presented.
- The victim sustained a single entrance wound to the sternal region.
- Autopsy revealed two 0.32 S&WL lead bullets in a nose-to-base configuration within the descending abdominal aorta, indicating embolization.
Findings:
- Forensic ballistics successfully traced both bullets to a single firearm.
- The trajectory and autopsy findings supported a suicide determination.
- The unusual manifestation of bullet embolization in the aorta was a key finding.
Implications:
- This case highlights the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach, integrating crime scene investigation, forensic pathology, and ballistics.
- Forensic experts must be aware of the tandem bullet phenomenon and its rare presentations, such as embolization, for accurate case conclusions.