Experimental assessment: Heavy bladed tool mark analysis in relation to dismemberment and its implications for forensic identification
Year: 2015
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to contribute to the literature and techniques associated with the creation of a clear means for identifying tool marks caused by heavy bladed instruments during dismemberment. This research examines the trauma patterns associated with specific weapons (machete or axe). Thirty-two fully fleshed pig limbs (Sus scrofa) were dismembered by 4 volunteers. Evidence shows that it is possible to differentiate between machete and axe strikes on certain characteristics. Two different types of statistical testing were used to evaluate the data collected in this study. A t-test showed that the kerf width and depth made by the axe is statistically different from the kerf width and depth made by the machete. Then a two-tailed Fisher’s exact test was created to determine if there were statistically significant patterns in the frequency of tool marks. The tool marks include: fracturing, shattering, and crushing. The frequencies of specific tool marks are taken from the total number of tool marks made by each weapon; for example of the 121 tool marks associated with the axe; 84 are crushing tool marks (69.4%). Statistical significance was discovered in regards to kerf width, kerf depth, the frequency of shattering, the frequency of crushing, and when the bone was completely sliced through.
Authors: Melanie L Highsmith, Robert R. Paine
Language: English
Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Texas Tech University
OpenAlex ID: W349213647