Execution by hanging, a Justice Department decision in full force
In the tragic event of a hanging death, forensic investigators look for specific signs to determine the cause and circumstances of the death. One of the most common causes of death in such cases is combined asphyxia and venous congestion.
The most common site of hyoid bone fracture in hanging deaths occurs at the junction of the inner two-thirds and outer third of the greater cornu. This fracture is more common in individuals over 40 years old, occurring in 15-20% of cases.
The external features of hanging deaths are easily identifiable. The deceased may present with a pale or congested face, open, closed, or partially open eyes, a protruded tongue, an elongated neck, and urine or faecal matter. Seminal traces from male genitals may also be present. As the death progresses, the skin below the ligature mark becomes parchment-like or dried.
The ligature mark in hanging deaths is usually obliquely placed and does not completely encircle the neck. Minor periligature injuries may also be present. The mark is situated above the level of the thyroid cartilage between the larynx and the chin in 80% of cases.
The impression of the ligature can be found on the skin of the neck. In addition, common external features seen in hanging-related deaths include ligature marks, petechial hemorrhages (small pin-point bleedings), cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen), and sometimes evidence of capillary dilation and stasis in the skin.
Petechial hemorrhages, caused by increased venous pressure leading to rupture of small blood vessels, are common around the eyes, face, and sometimes the conjunctiva (lining of the eyelids). Cyanosis and capillary changes reflect the asphyxial nature of hanging, due to obstruction of blood flow and oxygen deprivation.
Other factors like the position of the body (full or partial suspension) may affect ligature mark location and features but the external ligature mark remains a consistent finding.
During a crime scene investigation, the investigator should check for the type of knot, body position, appearance, and other distinguishing features. They should also note the height of the person, the support, and the point of anchor to determine whether or not the point of anchor is within the victim's reach. The investigator should note the victim's finger and footprints near the place of anchor and over the support, respectively.
In judicial hanging, the knot is placed below the chin, and the length of the rope from the point of suspension is equal to the height of the individual. In such cases, a suicide note and other corroborating evidence may be sought.
Hanging can be suicidal, accidental, or homicidal, with suicidal hanging being the most preferred method for suicide. It can be caused by various materials such as rope, cord, dhoti, chunri, saree, scarf, wire, or any other material that can be used as a ligature.
In summary, the key external forensic markers in hanging deaths are ligature marks around the neck, petechial hemorrhages, and cyanosis, which collectively indicate asphyxia caused by the applied pressure of a ligature on the neck structures. These markers are crucial in determining the cause and circumstances of a hanging death.
- In cases of suspected suicide by hanging, investigators may need to consider potential mental health issues leading to the act, as hanging is often the preferred method for suicide.
- The field of science can provide valuable insights into the medical-conditions associated with hanging deaths, such as neurological-disorders that may arise from prolonged asphyxia.
- Health-and-wellness professionals might also be called upon to analyze the overall health status of the deceased, considering factors like medical-conditions and their impact on the individual's response to the traumatic event at the crime scene.
