Forensic Application of Analytical Mechanics in Fatal Fall From a Height
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences
Journal Volume
64
Journal Issue
4
Pages
1230-1233
Date Issued
2019
Author(s)
Abstract
Fatal fall from a height initiated with a swinging motion on the sagittal plane of the victim's body is examined. Method of analytical mechanics is adopted to establish the functional relations between the swinging angle of the body and the force needed to sustain the body until release, and the amount of the horizontal displacement that would occur after release. The analysis is applied to support an expert opinion presented in a criminal court in which two accused were convicted of murder for dropping a female victim from a bridge. The results indicate that it is unlikely for the body to locate as recorded by the police investigation report in the case. This study demonstrates that a straightforward mechanical analysis can be utilized to examine uncommon falling scenarios. © 2019 American Academy of Forensic Sciences
Subjects
analytical mechanics; fatal fall from height; forensic science; human body rotation; mathematical model; rebuttal evidence for retrial
SDGs
Other Subjects
biophysics; case report; female; forensic science; homicide; human; kinetics; male; procedures; theoretical model; Biophysical Phenomena; Female; Forensic Sciences; Homicide; Humans; Kinetics; Male; Models, Theoretical
Type
journal article