NCJ Number
130205
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 736-740
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Procedures used in modern forensic laboratories for detection of gunshot residues (GSR) are summarized and applied to problems of interposed targets and determination of points of entrance and exit of projectiles in the body.
Abstract
The interpretation of the range of fire of gunshot wounds requires coordination of information from the autopsy surgeon, scene investigator, and laboratory analyst. Examination of clothing and tissues excised from wounds of gunshot cases includes a visual examination for powder soot and powder, microscopic examination and documentation, soft x-ray examination for powder, missile fragments, and bone and other evidence as well as chemical tests for lead, nitrites, and copper and energy dispersive, x-ray analysis for metallic residues such as lead, antimony, barium, and copper. Case examples of effects of interposed targets such as clothing, windows, and body parts are presented to illustrate how confusing patterns can lead to misidentification of the points of entrance and exit of the projectile in the body. Likewise, the splitting of tissues in areas of bony prominence can be mistaken for evidence of discharge of a firearms at close ranges. A failure to consider possible interposed targets and their effects on wounds and also the type of weapon involved would appear to cause the most frequent problems of misinterpretation. 1 photograph and 8 references (Author abstract modified)