Analysis of firearm deaths from Central Delhi region-A 6-year retrospective study

Abstract

Firearm injuries were well known for their atypical findings and appearances in routine so a retrospective study from 2013 to 2018 was performed to evaluate the morphology of firearm injuries and the damaged caused by it. Data of 65 cases was collected from post mortem notes of the deceased. It was observed that the age group of 21–40 years was most commonly affected with 63 cases (96.9%) and a male: female ratio 31.5: 1. Individuals of the Hinduism religion (50 cases, 76.9%) were most commonly affected and most of the victims were brought dead or were dead on the spot (34 cases, 52.3%). Rifled firearm weapon most commonly used (63 cases, 96.9%) while shotgun was used in 02 cases (3.1%). Single entry (43 cases, 66.2%) and exit wounds 37 cases (56.9%) were most commonly observed. In 41 cases (63.1%) no bullet was recovered while single bullet was recovered in 16 cases (24.6%) during post mortem examination. Entry wounds were most commonly found on head, face and neck region of body in 29 cases (44.6%) followed by chest region in 26 cases (40.0%), while right lower limb region with one case (1.5%) was least commonly found. Exit wounds were most commonly found on head, face and neck region (22 cases, 33.8%) followed by back region (15 cases, 23.1%). Lungs (22 cases, 33.8%) and brain (21 cases, 32.3%) were most commonly damaged organs in firearm injuries while kidneys and spleen (2 cases, 3.1%) each were least commonly involved organs. Skull and facial bones (23 cases, 35.4%) were most commonly fractured bones by firearm weapons followed by ribs and clavicle (17 cases, 26.2%). Abrasion collar was the most common entry wound artefact (53 cases, 81.5%) followed by smudging/blackening/stippling (20 cases, 30.8%). Homicidal was the most common manner of death with 44 cases (67.7%), followed by Suicidal with 15 cases (23.1%). Shock and Haemorrhage was the most common cause of death with 30 cases (46.2%).