How to Determine Homicide or Suicide in Shooting Deaths

Determining a homicide from a suicide can be difficult in shooting deaths unless you take the time to collect the evidence and work the case properly. Use these steps to learn more about determining if a shooting death is a homicide or suicide.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Study the crime scene. The elements of the crime scene are the most important aspects in finding a cause of death. You must pay attention to blood spatter, blood trails, the overall state of the crime scene, as well as many other elements. Watch for signs of a struggle and where the weapon is and how it is placed. Also ask yourself if there is GSR on the victims hands or clothing.

2. Go over the autopsy report. See what the medical examiner determined was the cause of death and the trajectory of the wound. Look for any other wounds, recent or old, that could have any effect on the case, such as defensive wounds or past wounds that would indicate abuse.

3. Study the personal life of the victim to determine if he was having money troubles or problems at work or in his personal life. Determine if there was any reason to commit suicide or a reason someone would have the motive to kill the victim. Look at every aspect of the person's life. Interview anyone who was connected to the victim to get a complete picture of the person's life.

4. Include others. Brainstorm with other law enforcement officials. Let them review your forensic evidence, interviews and other materials to see if you missed anything.

5. Put the pieces together. After completing a thorough investigation of the crime scene, victim and victim's life, you should be able to make a determination of whether this was a homicide or suicide.