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Fatal Electrocution by a Support Metal Wire
Author(s) -
Shetty B. Suresh Kumar,
Kanchan Tanuj,
Shetty Mahabalesh,
Naik Ramadas,
Menezes Ritesh G.,
Sameer K. S. Muhammed,
Hasan Faisal
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2010.01365.x
Subject(s) - electrocution , accidental , forensic engineering , poison control , medical emergency , engineering , medicine , physics , acoustics
Electrocution is not an uncommon cause of death. A case of fatal electrocution by a metal wire that was used as a support for the insulated television cable wire is reported. Electric current flowed through the metal wire when it touched the residential power line. Electrical injury caused because of contact with the live metal wire is described with histopathological findings. This case reports the circumstances that led to accidental fatal electrocution in an outdoor setting during the rainy season. Significance of death scene investigation to confirm the cause and manner of death in cases of fatal electrocution is highlighted. Public awareness programs to lay emphasis on electrical safety in domestic environment need to be introduced to prevent fatalities resulting from ignorance and/or negligence.