NCJ Number
94120
Editor(s)
V J M Di Maio
Date Published
1983
Length
156 pages
Annotation
Ten articles discuss specific topics in forensic pathology, including wounds, deaths from various causes, and trace evidence.
Abstract
An article on wounds caused by centerfire rifles notes that the type of injury caused by a high-velocity rifle depends on the distance from which the rifle is fired and the possible presence of intermediate targets. In a following paper, experimental results, clinical reports, and autopsy findings illustrate the diversity of effects to be expected in high-velocity missle wounds. A discussion of death caused by fire presents guidelines in identifying fire victims, establishing the time of death, assessing injuries, and determining the cause of death and origin of fire. Additional articles explore death or injury caused by explosion and by electrocution. Another paper suggests that a significant number of sudden infant deaths may be homicides and advises further investigation when other suspicious circumstances surround such deaths. Trace evidence, particularly the information that can be provided by hair, primer residues, fingernail clippings, and bloodstains, is highlighted. Two concluding articles explore forensic aspects of ethyl alcohol and the pathologist's role in product-related deaths. Tables, chapter references, and an index are provided.