A Fatal Shot with a Signal Flare—A Crime Reconstruction*

Abstract

A reconstruction of an incident of a fatal wounding of a football fan with a parachute flare was performed. Physical and chemical examinations of the victim's trousers and parts of a flare removed from the wound in his leg were performed by means of an optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. Signs of burning were seen on the front upper part of the trousers, including a 35-40 mm circular hole with melted and charred edges. Postblast residue present on the surface of the trousers contained strontium, magnesium, potassium, and chlorine. Also the case files--the medical reports and the witnesses' testimonies--were thoroughly studied. It has been found that the evidence collected in the case supported the version of the victim being shot by another person from a distance.