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Homicide by Use of a Pellet Gun

NCJ Number
87634
Journal
American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1982) Pages: 361-365
Author(s)
G S Green; R Good
Date Published
1982
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This report describes a case involving homicide by use of a pellet gun or air gun and reviews current literature on air gun deaths and injuries.
Abstract
This case is believed to be the second reported homicidal air gun death in the United States. The fatal wound was unusual in that two pellets were loaded in 'piggyback' fashion into the single shot .20 caliber Sheridan air gun. The lethal pellet penetrated the brain. This case shows that air-powered weapons are not harmless toys but have caused many injuries and several deaths. Photographs and 17 references are supplied. (Author abstract modified)