Multiple gunshot suicide: A case study of three self-Inflicted shots using two revolvers

Firearm suicides typically involve a single weapon and shot. Multiple gunshot suicides are rare, representing only 0-6% of all firearm suicides, with cases involving two weapons being exceptionally uncommon. We report an extraordinary suicide case involving an 86-year-old male with recently diagnosed bone cancer who used two revolvers to inflict three self-inflicted gunshots. The deceased was found in his bathroom, positioned on a mat with a pillow, holding a Taurus 85 0.38 Special revolver in his left hand and having used a Colt Python 0.357 Magnum revolver with his right hand. Two shots were fired simultaneously into the left chest from both weapons, followed by a third shot to the right thigh using the Colt Python. The scene suggested careful premeditation. Autopsy revealed severe bilateral lung damage, cardiac injury, and a through-and-through thigh wound. Both revolvers were functional and matched ballistic evidence. Gunshot residue consistent with both weapons was found on the deceased's hands, and his DNA was detected on both firearms. Notably, no fingerprints were recovered from either weapon, and no blood backspatter was observed on the hands-findings not uncommon in close-range self-inflicted gunshots. This case represents the first reported suicide involving three shots from two revolvers, including an unusual shot to the extremity. The absence of typical physical evidence (fingerprints, backspatter) initially complicated the investigation but is consistent with forensic literature. This case emphasizes the importance of comprehensive forensic investigation in complex suicides and contributes valuable data to the limited literature on multiple weapon suicides.