This study analyzed 325 autopsy cases of firearm-related deaths in Bursa, Türkiye, revealing critical demographic and injury pattern insights. The findings underscore the predominance of young adult males and the high lethality associated with injuries to vital anatomical regions.
Background
Firearm-related deaths are a significant public health issue globally, with varying epidemiological characteristics across regions. Understanding these patterns is crucial for improving medicolegal practices and public health interventions. Autopsy studies provide essential data for reconstructing events and determining causes of death in firearm-related incidents.
Data Highlights
Characteristic
Percentage
Male Cases
87%
Mean Age
36.6 ± 15.3 years
Handgun Usage
94.2%
Contact-Range Shootings
45.5%
Single Entrance Wounds
68.9%
Head Injuries
61.2%
Major Vascular Injury
22.8%
Bone Fractures
89.8%
Alcohol Presence
20.3%
Stimulants Presence
12.6%
Illicit Drugs Presence
6.2%
Key Findings
Firearm-related deaths accounted for 4.55% of all autopsies performed.
Majority of cases were male (87%) with a mean age of 36.6 years.
Handguns were the predominant firearm type, used in 94.2% of cases.
Contact-range shootings were most common, occurring in 45.5% of cases.
Single entrance wounds were noted in 68.9% of cases, primarily affecting the head and thorax.
Toxicological analysis showed alcohol and stimulants present in a significant proportion of cases.
Clinical Implications
The findings highlight the need for comprehensive medicolegal evaluations that integrate autopsy results with scene investigations and clinical data. Understanding the demographic and injury patterns can aid in developing targeted public health strategies and preventive measures against firearm-related deaths.
Conclusion
This study emphasizes the critical role of autopsy findings in understanding firearm-related deaths and the necessity for a multidisciplinary approach in medicolegal investigations to enhance accuracy in determining causes of death.
