Hands Tied with Bag Full of Books in Suicidal Hanging.
Hanging deaths associated with binding of limbs, masking of a face, and gagging are always suspicious. In suicidal hanging, the victim uses these added techniques to prevent him from backing out of his decision and to ensure death. However, binding of limbs and adding extra weight to the suspension in hanging are not reported. Herein, we report a case where the victim tied a bag containing books weighing 7 kg (15.4 lbs) to both his hands during hanging. The forensic specialist must be aware of the unusual presentation of suicidal hanging which may suggest foul play. The manner of death must be established after detailed analysis of circumstantial evidence, information obtained from the witnesses, complete autopsy, and toxicological examination.
Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
Asit Kumar
AK
Sikary
Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
Chittaranjan
C
Behera
Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India.
Om Prakash
OP
Murty
Department of Forensic Medicine, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, 411013, India.
Ravi
R
Rautji
D001237:Asphyxia; D001344:Autopsy; D001877:Books; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019838:Neck Injuries; D013405:Suicide; D055815:Young Adult
bag full of books; extra weight; forensic pathology; forensic science; suicidal hanging; tied hands