| Abstrakt: |
In most instances of death from gunshot wounds, the forensic pathologist is readily able to determine whether or not a particular gunshot wound was inflicted at contact, intermediate, or distant range. In some instances, however, such a determination is virtually impossible. Most difficulty occurs in differentiating a contact wound from a distant wound. A contact wound is apparent when soot is present on the outside of the skin, if there is a muzzle imprint, or if there is tearing of the skin caused by the effects of gas. However, determination of whether a wound is contact or distant can be a problem when (1) the body is decomposed; (2) the deceased has survived days or weeks after the initial wound; (3) the wound is a contact wound and there are multiple layers of clothing that filter out the soot and powder; and (4) the edges of the wound have dried in contact wounds with small caliber weapons. |
