An unusual lethal gunshot wound to the head

Abstract

Atypical gunshot wounds present a challenge for the forensic expert, and sometimes differentiating these from a blunt trauma can be difficult. A careful crime scene investigation can be helpful in finding additional evidence and clarifying the nature of the injuries. We describe a case of an unusual craniocerebral injury that was initially interpreted as a blow from a wooden object. The appearance of the wound lacked the classical characteristics of entrance and exit bullet wounds, but the investigation showed it was due to the ricocheting of a destabilized bullet. Potentially lethal, craniocerebral gunshot injuries are a common occurrence in developing countries even in non-conflict areas, with very bad outcomes even when treated aggressively in specialized neurosurgical facilities. The authors briefly discuss similar cases and opinions in the relevant literature, emphasizing the importance of a rational approach during the reconstruction of the crime scene.

Keywords: Gunshot injuries; atypical wounds; crime scene investigation; destabilized bullets.