NCJ Number
138355
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 37 Issue: 4 Dated: (July 1992) Pages: 1172-1178
Date Published
1992
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Prompt recognition of patterned injuries by the forensic pathologist can greatly facilitate the investigation and resolution of injury and death cases.
Abstract
The careful observation and description of injuries may identify an assault or murder weapon and may contribute to the reconstruction of an injury's circumstances. Two cases are described that manifest unusual and distinctive injuries from multiple impacts by adjustable crescent wrenches. Because these wrenches are a common and readily available tool, their potential for use as a weapon is increased. The spectrum of patterned injuries that may occur with impacts from the wrenches depends on the surface of the tool striking the victim, tool size, and body site impacted. Several other case reports have also documented the correlation of patterned blunt force injuries with assault or murder weapons. The recognition of patterned wounds and the correlation of wounds with potential weapons or injury circumstances are crucial responsibilities of the forensic pathologist. Detailed photographs and descriptions of blunt force injuries caused by crescent wrenches are provided. 5 references and 5 figures