ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 April 1983
Page Count: 3

Back Spatter of Blood from Gunshot Wounds—Observations and Experimental Simulation
Stephens, BG
Chief medical examiner-coroner and forensic pathology fellow, San Francisco Medical Examiner's-Coroner's Office, CA

Allen, TB
Chief medical examiner-coroner and forensic pathology fellow, San Francisco Medical Examiner's-Coroner's Office, CA

(Received 31 August 1982; accepted 15 September 1982)

Abstract

It is well known that gunshot wounding can produce fine droplets of blood spattered in a forward direction. Under certain circumstances blood droplets can also be propelled backwards in a direction against the line of fire. Although the phenomenon of back spatter of blood is most commonly seen in contact gunshot wounds of the head, its occurrence is not well recognized. In this article we summarize investigative and experimental observations concerning back spatter. We suggest that back spatter is a type of “blow-back” effect produced by discharge of a large volume of gas in a confined space.

Keywords:
criminalistics, wound ballistics, blood

Paper ID: JFS11526J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11526J
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