A case of suicidal ligature strangulation by using a tourniquet method

Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2010 Mar;31(1):85-6. doi: 10.1097/PAF.0b013e3181c21c24.

Abstract

Ligature strangulations are usually homicidal. Accidental and suicidal ligature strangulations are quite rare. In this study, an unusual case of suicidal ligature strangulation with a tourniquet method using a walking stick is presented.A 70-year-old-man was found dead in his room, a piece of cloth wrapped around the neck, knotted, and tightened by a walking stick. His hand was still on the walking stick which was seemingly used by him for a tourniquet effect. Autopsy showed bilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle hemorrhage. A thorough death scene investigation, detailed corpse examination, and autopsy are extremely important for determining the manner of death in such ligature strangulation cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Asphyxia / pathology*
  • Coronary Stenosis / pathology
  • Forensic Pathology
  • Hemorrhage / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lung / pathology
  • Male
  • Methods
  • Neck Injuries / pathology*
  • Neck Muscles / pathology
  • Pulmonary Edema / pathology
  • Purpura / pathology
  • Suicide*
  • Tourniquets*