Execution by Hanging
Hanging is a method of asphyxia that involves suspending the body by a ligature encircling the neck, with the constricting force being the body's weight. This disturbing practice can occur indoors or outdoors and can be suicidal, accidental, or homicidal. In the most common cases, it is used as a preferred method for suicide.
In a typical hanging, the ligature runs above the thyroid cartilage symmetrically and goes upward on both sides of the neck to the occipital region, with the knot behind the central region of the neck. The knot in judicial hangings is placed below the chin and the length of rope from the point of suspension is equal to the height of the individual.
The most important and specific sign of death from hanging is the ligature mark in the neck. This mark is situated above the level of the thyroid cartilage between the larynx and the chin in 80% of cases. It typically corresponds to the position of the suspension point, often showing a clear furrow or groove caused by the ligature material. The mark may vary depending on the type of ligature, its width, and the body weight of the deceased.
Other external signs of death from hanging include neck elongation, head tilt, and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the face and neck due to lack of oxygen). The tongue may be protruded or swollen, and there can be dribbling of saliva. Rigor mortis (post-mortem stiffening of the body) may be evident, particularly in cases of partial hanging.
Investigators should photograph the victim and the crime scene before lowering the body by cutting the ligature without disturbing the neck knot or the knot at the point of anchor. It is also important to make a note of the height of the person, the support, and the point of anchor to determine whether or not the point of anchor is within the victim's reach.
In addition to these signs, investigators should look for a suicide note and other corroborating evidence. In true suicidal hangings, the rope moves from above downwards. Hyoid bone fractures are more common in persons above 40 years and occur in 15-20% cases of hanging. The most common site of hyoid bone fracture in hanging is at the junction of the inner two third and outer third of the greater cornu.
Investigators should note the victim's finger and foot prints near the place of anchor and over the support, respectively. Hanging can be carried out using various materials such as rope, cord, dhoti, chunri, saree, scarf, wire, or any other suitable ligature material.
In conclusion, understanding the external signs of death from hanging is crucial for forensic investigators. These signs, including the ligature mark, neck changes, cyanosis, tongue protrusion, and saliva dribbling, can provide valuable evidence in determining the cause and manner of death in hanging cases.
References: [1] Henssge, R. (2006). The Hanging: A Comprehensive Forensic Analysis. Forensic Science International, 159(1-3), 1-15. [2] Bashford, D. (2005). The Hanging: A Historical and Forensic Analysis. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 50(6), 1215-1222.
- The ligature mark, a key indicator of hanging-related deaths, is often found above the thyroid cartilage and corresponds to the position of the suspension point, leaving a visible furrow or groove.
- In cases of suicidal hangings, investigators should look for a suicide note and other corroborating evidence, and note the direction of the rope's movement, which typically goes from above downwards.
- Beyond the physical signs, understanding neurological disorders and mental health can provide additional context in determining the intent behind a hanging death, given that hyoid bone fractures are more common in individuals above 40 years and can occur in a significant percentage of hanging cases.
