Citation

Blakey L, Sharples GP, Chana K, Birkett JW. J. Forensic Sci. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, American Society for Testing and Materials, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/1556-4029.15267

PMID

37102268

Abstract

Only limited data currently exists on the inadvertent transfer of gunshot residue (GSR), or GSR-like particles through contact with public places. In this study, an assessment occurrence of GSR in public environments in England, UK was undertaken. Utilizing a stubbing sampling technique over 260 samples were collected from areas accessible to the public, including buses, trains, taxis, and train stations. Stub analysis was performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (SEM-EDX). The results showed no characteristic GSR particles were detected on any of the 262 samples taken. From these samples, a total of four indicative/consistent particles were identified on one train seat (2× BaAl, 2× PbSb). Although geographical location and firearm association is likely to influence GSR occurrence, the data suggests that the potential for inadvertent GSR transfer through contact with public transport and associated communal areas is insignificant. Further research assessing environmental background levels of GSR in additional geographical locations is critical in an evaluation of the potential for GSR transfer from the environment.

Language: en

Keywords

environmental particles; persistence; prevalence of gunshot residue; SEM-EDX; transfer