Characteristic features of pediatric firearm fatalities - Comparisons between Australia and the United States
Date
2009
Authors
Byard, R.
Haas, E.
Marshall, D.
Gilbert, J.
Krous, H.
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Journal article
Citation
Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2009; 54(5):1093-1096
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Roger W. Byard, Elisabeth Haas, Drew T. Marshall, John D. Gilbert and Henry F. Krous
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Abstract
Gunshot deaths in children less than 17 years of age from Adelaide, SA, Australia (1969-2005) and from San Diego County, CA, United States (1988-2005) were compared. Forty-two pediatric gunshot fatalities occurred in South Australia (1.1 cases/year; M:F = 30:12). There were 6 accidents (14%), 14 suicides (33%), and 22 homicides (52%). In San Diego there were 185 cases (c.10 cases/year; M:F = 148:37). There were 6 accidents (3%), 42 suicides (23%), 130 homicides (70%), and 7 undetermined cases (4%). The incidence of homicide was significantly higher in San Diego County compared to Adelaide (p < 0.001), with a higher proportion of murder-suicides occurring in Adelaide. There were markedly more accidents and suicides involving males in Adelaide and a far higher number of male homicide victims in San Diego County compared to females. Rifles of 0.22-caliber were preferred weapons in South Australia, compared to handguns in San Diego County.
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© 2009 American Academy of Forensic Sciences