Death or injury caused by electrocution

Proper investigation of injury and death from electrocution requires a high level of suspicion, as examination of the victim will often prove negative. Careful photographic documentation of the scene must be done in every case. In low voltage cases, the equipment that may have been involved should be photographed, x-rayed, and examined electrically. Autopsy examination of the victim in cases of electrocution due to high voltage alternating or direct current usually reveals burns and the nonspecific findings of asphyxia. Victims of low voltage alternating current often have no electrical burns and the absence of findings characteristic of ventricular fibrillation. Low voltage direct current rarely produces death.