Execution by Hanging: The Gruesome Display of State-Sanctioned Violence
In the realm of forensic investigations, understanding the intricacies of hanging deaths is crucial. Hanging, a type of asphyxia, occurs when a person is suspended by a ligature around the neck, causing death by cutting off oxygen supply.
The most telling sign of death by hanging is the ligature mark on the neck, which is usually horizontal or slightly oblique, and corresponds to the position of the noose. In some cases, the skin below the mark may become parchment-like or dried.
Other external features of hanging death include congestion and cyanosis of the face, lips, and conjunctivae, swelling of the face and tongue, dribbling of saliva, and petechial hemorrhages on the conjunctiva, eyelids, and face above the ligature mark. The victim's face may appear pale or congested, eyes may be open, closed, or partially open, and the tongue may protrude or be found between the teeth.
In addition to these visible signs, internal examinations may reveal fractures of the hyoid bone or thyroid cartilage, though these are less frequent in hanging compared to strangulation. The cause of death in hanging is primarily due to venous congestion, arterial obstruction leading to cerebral hypoxia, and airway obstruction. Vagal inhibition may also contribute to the mechanism of death.
Investigators should note the type of knot, body position, and other distinguishing features. Atypical hanging occurs when the knot is anywhere other than the typical position. In true suicidal hanging, the rope moves from above downwards.
Investigators should also look for a support used to reach the point of anchor, 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 impression of the ligature may also be present on the skin.
It's important to differentiate hanging from other causes of asphyxial death such as strangulation. Identifying typical ligature marks, signs of asphyxia, and the pattern of injuries on internal neck structures is crucial in forensic analysis.
Hanging can be suicidal, accidental, or homicidal, with suicidal hanging being the most preferred method for suicide. It can occur using various materials such as rope, cord, dhoti, chunri, saree, scarf, wire, etc.
In judicial hanging, the knot is placed below the chin and the length of rope from the point of suspension is equal to the height of the individual. The cause of death in judicial hanging is brainstem damage.
During a crime scene investigation in hanging cases, investigators should photograph the victim and the crime scene before lowering the body. They should also look for a suicide note and other corroborating evidence.
References: 1. Forensic Science International 2. Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine 3. Journal of Forensic Sciences 4. American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology 5. Journal of Investigative Medicine
- In the field of forensic science, understanding the medical-conditions associated with neurological disorders, such as cerebral hypoxia resulting from hanging or strangulation, is crucial for proper investigation and analysis.
- Besides physical evidence, mental-health records may provide valuable insights for investigators, helping them determine the intent behind a hanging death, whether it's suicidal, accidental, or homicidal.
- To ensure a comprehensive understanding of a crime scene related to hanging, investigators should not only focus on signs of asphyxia, ligature marks, and internal injuries but also consider factors affecting one's health-and-wellness, like pre-existing medical-conditions, that might influence the outcome of the investigation.
