Study of Patterns of Homicidal Death during Post Mortem Examination Conducted in V.S. General Hospital

Abstract

Background: Homicide is killing of human being by another human being, which is one of the oldest crimes in human civilization. It started from the murder of Abel by the hands of Cane. Violence is a significant public health problem and homicide is severest form of violence, depriving a human being of his fundamental right to live. Homicide is prevalent widely almost all over the world. Nowadays, the increasing incidence of homicide is worldwide and it is manner of great concern. Methods: This study was conducted at Dept. Of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Smt. N. H. L. Municipal Medical College, Ellisbridge, Ahmedabad. The present study was conducted over period of July 2009 to November 2011. Out of which 50 were considered as homicidal death after going through inquest papers and indoor case papers. Results: Homicidal deaths constituted of 50/2639 (1.86%) all autopsies. Ratio of male to female victim was 1.94:1. Near half of victims were of age 21-40 years (48%). Head injury constituted the most common cause of death (34%) and near half of homicides (46%) caused by sharp and pointed weapons. The head, neck and face sustained the highest numbers of injuries 28 (56%) followed by thorax 12 (24%) and abdomen 10 (20%). Majority of cases were occurred during summer season (40%) very closely followed by winter (30%) and monsoon (30%). More than half (58%) of the cases occurred during night hours 15 (30%) and evening hours 14 (28%). 31 (62%) cases were with known motives among which personal dispute plays a major role. Conclusion: In this study, young age victims constituted the dominant group. Sharp weapons were commonly employed in this region for homicide. Proper counselling for developing positive attitude and controlling the aggression in youth have to be promoted at large by the government.