Pattern of homicidal deaths in Khammam district, Telangana

Abstract

The homicide cases are often intriguing and challenging to the investigative agencies. They often have local or regional  characteristics, as well as various intricacies, which require through analysis and understanding for the administration of justice and to  deter such incidences from recurring. The present retrospective study, analyses the data of 108 cases, from Jan 2017 to Dec 2017 for a  period of one year in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Mamata Medical College, Khammam. Our study, revealed that the victims  were mostly males of 21 - 30 years, married, Hindu, belonged to low socioeconomic status, from rural areas, literates and  occupationally working as laborers. We observed, that the majority of the incidents had taken place at night 86 (79.63%), and most  cases were reported during summer months (46.29%). Most of the homicides took place at victim 's residence; indoor incidents were  commoner (45.37%) than outdoor incidents (27.77%). According to the day of incident, homicide deaths were more prevalent on  weekends Sundays and Saturdays. Acquaintances were involved in the majority (69.44%) of the cases. In 12.25 % of cases, police did  not suspect homicide prior to autopsy. The main motive was revenge in 40.74% cases. Sharp weapon injuries (45.37%) were the most  commonly reported followed by blunt weapon injuries (30.55%). 90.74% of the victims died on the spot. Hemorrhage and shock was  the most common cause of death. Previous enmity and family disharmony were the two common causes behind such heinous crime.  Most victims had injuries over multiple body parts. Blood alcohol was found positive in 30.23% of victims. The study intends to  identify the potential risk factors and susceptible victims and propose preventive measures.