Abstract
Firearm deaths are most commonly self-inflicted. The determination of suicide is supported not only by the presence of a close-range wound but also by the scene and historical information. A complete external examination of the victim may also reveal evidence of self-intent on the hand(s), i.e., blood spatter and soot deposition. The head is the most common site for self-inflicted wounds. Cranial injuries can have unique features (e.g., ricochet). Certain factors complicate the assessment of close-range firearm injuries. Medical procedures and interposed clothing can alter wound appearance. Unusually located or multiple wounds arouse suspicion of homicide. Examination of a wound track determines the cause of death. In the case of multiple wound tracks, relative lethality and incapacitation need to be assessed in the determination of manner of death.
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(2007). Penetrating Trauma. In: Forensic Pathology of Trauma. Forensic Science and Medicine. Humana Press. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59745-138-3_6
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