ABSTRACT
The accurate determination of the range of fire (that is to say, the distance from the muzzle to the body at the instant of discharge) may pose many problems for the forensic pathologist.
Crime scene and police agencies need to ascertain several key points during the investigation of deaths involving firearms. These points include:
1. The type of weapon involved (rifled or smooth bore)
2. The type and caliber of ammunition used 3. The number of shots fired 4. The direction/angle of the shots
The pathologist, while also actively involved in determining the above, is further expected to supply accurate information in his report pertaining to:
1. The range of fire 2. Confirmation of the direction of fire 3. Internal organ damage 4. A comment of capability of defense or response
on behalf of the victim
The concept of determination of the range of fire is arguably the most difficult. It is not uncommon for this information to be contested in a court of law and may be pivotal to the outcome of a case.
