Citation

Shaqiri E, Xhemali B, Ismaili Z, Sinamati A, Vyshka G. Med. Leg. J. 2016; 85(1): 51-54.

Affiliation

Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine in Tirana, Tirana, Albania gvyshka@gmail.com.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Medico-Legal Society, Publisher SAGE Publications)

DOI

10.1177/0025817216678718

PMID

27837166

Abstract

Atypical gunshot wounds present a challenge for the forensic expert, and sometimes differentiating these from a blunt trauma can be difficult. A careful crime scene investigation can be helpful in finding additional evidence and clarifying the nature of the injuries. We describe a case of an unusual craniocerebral injury that was initially interpreted as a blow from a wooden object. The appearance of the wound lacked the classical characteristics of entrance and exit bullet wounds, but the investigation showed it was due to the ricocheting of a destabilized bullet. Potentially lethal, craniocerebral gunshot injuries are a common occurrence in developing countries even in non-conflict areas, with very bad outcomes even when treated aggressively in specialized neurosurgical facilities. The authors briefly discuss similar cases and opinions in the relevant literature, emphasizing the importance of a rational approach during the reconstruction of the crime scene.

© The Author(s) 2016.

Language: en