Asphyxiation by Occlusion of Nose and Mouth by Duct Tape: Two Unusual Suicides

Abstract

The most recent U.S. statistics (2005) determined that 22.2% of suicides are by suffocation. This number likely includes suicidal hanging. Based on previous reports the majority of nonhanging suicidal asphyxiations are accomplished by securing a plastic bag over the head. We report two instances of a far less common method of suicidal asphyxiation, occlusion of the nose and mouth by duct tape. One was a 47-year-old man with a history of paranoid schizophrenia with suicidal ideation and the other was a 52-year-old man who was depressed due to gambling debts. The value of scene investigation, including review of available video surveillance to determine the manner of death is highlighted.

Unusual methods of suicide: complexities in investigation

“…Hands were loosely tied behind the back with a rope fastened by two slip knots. Sticky grayish material, consistent with duct tape adhesive, on the face Paranoid schizophrenia with suicidal ideations Several suicide notes at the scene Deroux and Leffers 14 7. Man 52 Self-smothering Found dead in the bathroom of the hotel room, occupied the previous noon. The adhesive duct tape was firmly wrapped around the head, eyes, nose and mouth Acute depression Undisturbed room.…”

“…The adhesive duct tape was firmly wrapped around the head, eyes, nose and mouth Acute depression Undisturbed room. The video surveillance footage of the hotel showed the deceased bringing the adhesive duct tape to the room and no other person was present Deroux and Leffers 14 8. Woman 37 Severe amitryptiline intoxication and smothering Found dead in her apartment. Male co-habitant reported raised body temperature, breathing difficulties, confusion, speechlessness and immobility, prior to death.…”

Autopsy Reenactment – A Useful Technique in the Evaluation of Adhesive Tape Asphyxia

“…The type of tape may, however, influence the outcome, with a report describing two cases of suicide by successful occlusion of the mouth and nose with duct tape (8). The tape used in our case did not have the type of rubber-based glue that makes certain tapes so adhesive (9).…”

Applicability of DNA Analysis on Adhesive Tape in Forensic Casework

“…The previous studies analyzed adhesive tape samples derived from stubs used to secure gunshot residue from the skin, adhesive tape used for securing fingerprints, or tape used to secure microsamples from objects with presumptive biological samples. DNA profiling from these types of adhesive tape samples was successful in most of the analyzed samples (1–5).…”

“…Adhesive tape provides broad application possibilities. It can be used as a means to immobilize or silence human beings (as in immobilization or gagging), as a tool for burglary, for use in wrapping drug packets, preparing mechanical or electronic gadgets, explosive devices or simply for wrapping any desired object (1–4).…”