Question
In a case involving a gunshot victim where the autopsy revealed an entry wound with inward-turned margins and tattooing around the wound, but no blackening or singeing of hair, what is the likely firing range?
| A. |
Contact shot
|
| B. |
Near shot
|
| C. |
Close shot
|
| D. |
Distant shot
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » B
Explanation
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|
The findings are characteristic of a near shot (intermediate-range shot).
Features include:
- Inverted (inward-turned) margins → Typical of an entry wound.
- Tattooing (stippling) → Produced by unburnt or partially burnt gunpowder particles striking and embedding in the skin.
- No blackening (soot deposition) → Indicates that smoke and soot did not reach the skin.
- No singeing of hair → Indicates that the flame from the muzzle did not reach the skin.
In near (intermediate-range) shots, the flame and soot disperse before reaching the target, while unburnt powder particles still possess sufficient velocity to cause tattooing.
Why Other Options are Incorrect
A. Contact shot
- Muzzle is in direct contact with the skin.
- Features include:
- Burning.
- Blackening within and around the wound.
- Muzzle imprint.
- Stellate wound over bony areas due to gas expansion.
- Tattooing is usually absent externally.
C. Close shot
- Close-range injuries typically show:
- Burning.
- Blackening.
- Singeing of hair.
- Tattooing may also be present.
- The absence of blackening and singeing excludes a close shot.
D. Distant shot
- No burning.
- No blackening.
- No tattooing.
- Only the entry wound is seen.
