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Journal of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology

Volume  6, Issue 1, January-June 2020, Pages 73-78
 

Case Report

Death due to Accidental Electrocution: Social Aspects: A Case Report

Hemant Kumar, Vanika, Ruchi K, Aravindan V, Arijit Dey

1,5 Senior Resident, 2,3,4 Junior Resident Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Sri Aurobindo Marg, Ansari Nagar, Ansari Nagar East, New Delhi, Delhi 110029, India.

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/jfct.2454.9363.6120.9

Abstract

Background: The passage of electric current through human body can produce multiple effects, commonly known as Electrocution. The passage of electric current through the body produces wide range of effects, varying from insignificant localized spasm, little or no contact burns, fatality with little or no burns or extreme severe burning.

Case Report: A detailed history of the incident revealed that the bike rider skid and fell on the water logged road in rainy season and came in contact with the high tension wire and was electrocuted. The second person tried to attend to the bike driver and he also came in contact with the same wire and died instantly. Autopsy revealed external electrocution injuries on both deceased. Both these deaths were accidental in nature and were preventable. Histopathological examination of the electric contact point showed elongation and streaming of nuclei with focal inter-epidermal and epidermal-dermal separation.

Conclusion: This present article focuses on need for proper development of water drainage system especially during rainy season and also to generate public awareness regarding regular supervision of roadside Electric pole and wires which could prevent similar accidents. A detailed history regarding the incidence, scene visit, circumstantial evidence, statement of witness and proper postmortem examination with the histopathological examination are recommended prior to concluding the cause of death in case of alleged death due to electrocution. The data can be used for further planning and implementation of adequate measures to prevent accidents and thereby benefit the society.


Keywords : Electrocution; Rainy season; High tension wire; Water logging; Electric contact point.
Corresponding Author : Arijit Dey