Suicidal cut-throat and stab fatalities: three case reports

Abstract

Fatalities resulting from sharp force injuries may be of accidental, homicidal or suicidal origin. Cut-throat and cut-stab wounds are effective in homicidal attacks with sharp objects, e. g. knifes, while accidental injuries in this topographic region caused by sharp objects are rarely seen and most often caused by broken glass. Self-inflicted cut throat and stab wounds are uncommon but nevertheless a well recognized method of suicide. In these cases, presence or absence of particular features (e.g., hesitation marks, defensive wounds) can allow distinction between suicide and homicide, especially if further circumstances, i.e. atypical crime scene scenarios or missing suicide notes, need the forensic pathologist to have an incredulous approach regarding the manner of death. The present article describes three cases of suicidal cut throat and stab wounds - crime scene investigations as well as medical history and autopsy findings are discussed. Key W ords: sharp force injuries, stab wound, cut-throat, suicide, autopsy, forensic pathology