Gunshot Injury in Neck; Suicide or Homicide?

Abstract

Forensic investigation of a gunshot related death can be a challenging process .When ascertaining the manner
of death, the forensic expert should be careful, as, attempts are not uncommon to disguise homicides as
suicides. Abnormal and unusual location of gunshot wound adds to this suspicion. The case under discussion
highlights the role of a forensic expert in the ascertainment of the manner in firearm deaths. The deceased
was a criminal who was absconding and when his where about were revealed to the investigating agency, he
was followed to arrest but, upon reaching the spot in the sugarcane fields, there was exchange of fire and his
dead body was found with the weapon lying near him. A thorough complete autopsy and detection of gun
powder residue on hands lead to the unfolding of this mystery.