Question

Which of the following characteristics are observed in complete close contact wound from a shotgun?
(A) Muzzle impression
(B) Tattooing
(C) Seared zone
(D) Blackened zone

• (A) and (B) only
• (B) and (D) only
• (A) and (C) only
• (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Close contact wounds often show distinctive features like muzzle impressions and seared zones due to heat and gas discharge.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In a complete close contact shotgun wound, specific characteristics are observed:

• Muzzle impression: This occurs when the muzzle of the shotgun is pressed tightly against the skin, leaving an imprint of the gun’s barrel.
• Blackened zone: This is caused by the deposition of soot and combustion products around the wound due to the close range of the shot.

Other features like tattooing are not typically seen in close contact wounds but are more common in intermediate-range wounds. Similarly, a seared zone is associated with burns but is not specific to shotgun contact wounds.