Interpretation of Unusual Wounds Caused by Firearms

Abstract

The interpretation of the range of fire of gunshot wounds requires coordination of information and observations from the autopsy surgeon, scene investigator, and laboratory analyst. Opinions based on incomplete information often lead to misinterpretation of the wound. The effects of interposed targets such as clothing, windows, and body parts are discussed. Case examples are given for interposed targets that cause confusing patterns and even lead to misidentification of the points of entrance and exit of the projectile in the body. The splitting of tissue in areas of bony prominence can be mistaken for evidence of discharge of a firearm at close range.

Recent developments in methods of chemical analysis in investigations of firearm-related events

“…For the purpose of assessing shooting distance most of the forensic literature describes only visual/microscopic methods for examination of the appearance of the wound and discharge particle patterns around it [76,77,78]. Although sodium rhodizonate and rubeanic acid reagents have been proposed for visualization of lead and copper patterns around the gunshot wounds [79,80], in practice the author is not aware of any chemical tests conducted on cadavers for estimation of shooting distance.…”

Multiple variations of firearm injuries - A case report

“…Interposed targets can cause confusion and even lead to misidentification of the points of entrance and exit of the projectile in the body. 13 In the present case, there was strong theory of suicide by contact or near contact shooting. There was no sign of contact or close range firing on the dead body.…”

Destabilization and intracranial fragmentation of a full metal jacket bullet

“…When the bullet is destabilized in flight, the yaw phenomenon is more important and a large angle of yaw will affect the presenting profile upon impact and will contribute to create irregular and atypical entrance wounds. 1,2,8,9 Intermediary targets include doors, windows, vehicle parts, body parts especially upper members and any other object that is interposed between the muzzle of the firearm and the skin. 1,3,8 The phenomenon of destabilization and fragmentation of a bullet after shooting through an intermediate target may induce atypical entry wound.…”

“…1,2,8,9 Intermediary targets include doors, windows, vehicle parts, body parts especially upper members and any other object that is interposed between the muzzle of the firearm and the skin. 1,3,8 The phenomenon of destabilization and fragmentation of a bullet after shooting through an intermediate target may induce atypical entry wound. Dixon 2 described the fragmentation after shooting through a tempered plate glass of vehicle door of a jacket hollow-point (Luger 9 mm) which produced a large entrance wound and small satellite wounds all around corresponding to the impact of the bullet fragments.…”