ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 6

Effects of Human Decomposition on Bullet Striations
Berryman, HE
Assistant Professors and Instructor, University of Tennessee, TN

Jantz, L
Instructor, University of Tennessee, TN

Smith, OC
Assistant Professors and Instructor, University of Tennessee, TN

Symes, SA
Assistant Professors and Instructor, University of Tennessee, TN

(Received 27 July 1992; accepted 30 September 1992)

Abstract

Five different types of bullets, representing the major materials used in centerfirc handgun and rifle ammunition, were inserted into the cranial, chest and abdominal cavities, muscle and adipose tissues of a fresh cadaver. The bullets were retrieved after the body was 90% decomposed. Observation and comparison of before and after photographs let each bullet serve as its own control. Results indicate the reactivity of bullet materials and the body region are significant factors affecting the corrosion process and may obscure rifling striations.

Keywords:
forensic science, ballistics, anthropology, decomposition, gunshot

Paper ID: JFS13443J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13443J
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