Journal Published Online: 01 July 2003
Volume 48, Issue 4

Homicide Attempt with a Japanese Samurai Sword

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The use of Japanese swords for homicidal attempts is rare. A Japanese samurai sword is a sharp and cutting object. When faced with the use of this weapon, one must distinguish between stabs and incised wounds. Incised wounds can rarely lead to death, but because of the size of the weapon, stabs usually cause much more serious injuries. Stabs also imply a penetrating movement, whereas incised wounds can be the consequence of protective circular blows. Therefore, it is important to distinguish clinically between these two kinds of wounds. We report a case where the perpetrator argued he had given a circular blow, unfortunately hitting the victim. The pieces of evidence are discussed.

Author Information

Raul, J-S
Institut de Medecine Legale, Strasbourg Cedex, France
Berthelon, L
Institut de Medecine Legale, Strasbourg Cedex, France
Geraut, A
Institut de Medecine Legale, Strasbourg Cedex, France
Tracqui, A
Institut de Medecine Legale, Strasbourg Cedex, France
Ludes, B
Institut de Medecine Legale, Strasbourg Cedex, France
Pages: 3
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS2002318
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2002318