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Review
. 2022 Jun:335:111283.
doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111283. Epub 2022 Mar 24.

The wristwatch - A supplemental tool for determining time of death

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Free article
Review

The wristwatch - A supplemental tool for determining time of death

Johannes Rødbro Busch et al. Forensic Sci Int. 2022 Jun.
Free article

Abstract

Estimation of the time of death (TOD) is a central task to forensic pathologists. The current gold standard method for TOD-estimation is only applicable in the first 24 h post-mortem and it is advisable to employ multiple methods, if possible. A wristwatch found on the decedent can be a valuable additional tool for TOD-estimation. This technical report provides a brief overview of the two major watch types - mechanical and quartz-based timepieces - and a step-by-step guide to using these for TOD-estimation. The methods are demonstrated using case illustrations.

Keywords: Crime scene investigation; Forensic pathology; Post-mortem interval; Time of death; Wristwatch.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Interest The authors wish to declare no conflicts of interest.

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