Fatal Electrocution by a Support Metal Wire

Abstract

Electrocution is not an uncommon cause of death. A case of fatal electrocution by a metal wire that was used as a support for the insulated television cable wire is reported. Electric current flowed through the metal wire when it touched the residential power line. Electrical injury caused because of contact with the live metal wire is described with histopathological findings. This case reports the circumstances that led to accidental fatal electrocution in an outdoor setting during the rainy season. Significance of death scene investigation to confirm the cause and manner of death in cases of fatal electrocution is highlighted. Public awareness programs to lay emphasis on electrical safety in domestic environment need to be introduced to prevent fatalities resulting from ignorance and/or negligence.

Neurological and neurourological complications of electrical injuries

“…This has been reported not only as a part of a TBI pathology due to electrical injury, but also as the only consequence secondary to a high-voltage electrical burn to the scalp which can be reversible [61] or fatal [62]. 6.…”

Child Deaths

“…The origin of the event is mostly accidental in electric shocks that frequently develop as a domestic or occupational accident, and yet the possibility of child abuse or homicide should never be overlooked. It is important to keep the possibility of suicide in mind in adolescent cases (Canturk et al, 2008, Shetty et al, 2010. Death due to electric shock usually develops as a result of ventricular fibrillation or respiratory failure.…”

Response to Letter to the Editor: ‘Comment on epidemiology of childhood electrocution in Bangladesh’

“…Lee mentioned ''electrocution burns result in approximately 3000 admissions to burn centers every year, while injuries due to electrocution result in death in about 1000 patients yearly'' [3]. Shetty et al used the term fatal-electrocution which in turn agrees with the term non fatal electrocution [4]. I desire to use the word 'electrocution' as a name of an injury mechanism which is caused by electricity and electrocution can be both fatal and non fatal.…”