NCJ Number
162855
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 41 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1996) Pages: 60-79
Date Published
1996
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study describes the anthropological analysis, 56 years after his death, of the remains of the man who shot and killed Senator and former Governor of Louisiana Huey P. Long.
Abstract
Anthropological analysis of the remains of Dr. Carl Austin Weiss revealed biological information consistent with known data about age at death, sex, ancestry, and stature. Computer-assisted photographic superimposition revealed many points of similarity between the skeletal remains and two photographs of Dr.Weiss. Dr. Weiss had 22 dental restorations, which were analyzed using electron induced X-ray spectroscopy with a scanning electron microscope. Postmortem changes included decomposition of amalgam dental restorations, likely releasing mercury that stained the interior dentition, deposition of sulphur compounds on much of the skeleton, and the formation of numerous small bone fractures. Analysis of the skeleton revealed extensive postmortem trauma, indicating multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. Trajectory analysis of the bony trauma suggested that at least 20 projectiles penetrated Dr. Weiss's body. Figures, tables, references