The body of a dead person may be dismembered to either hinder identification or to aid in disposal. The instrument used can be identified by the markings left in bone.
Feature
Axe
Knife
Saw
width of mark
very wide
narrow (less than or equal to blade dimension)
wide (greater than blade width)
shape in cross section
V-shape
V-shape
square
surface appearance
smooth, may have microscopic striations
smooth, may have microscopic striations
visible striations
orientation to striations
perpendicular to kerf floor
perpendicular to kerf floor
parallel to kerf floor
wastage
significant, with fracture and "chattering"
minimal
moderate
where:
• kerf = notch or groove made by an axe, saw or other instrument
Limitations:
• More than one instrument may be used in the same area or on different portions of the body.
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