AFTE Store - The Identification of Impressed Cartridge Case Crimp Marks on Fired Bullets in a Shooting Scene Reconstruction

An example of the reconstructive value of identifying bullets as having come from specific cartridge cases is discussed. Previous published research indicates that, with Winchester ammunition, unique characteristics are imparted on a bullet by the case mouth. Two Winchester bullets, each with a cannelure, and each damaged by striking a separate person in a shooting incident, were examined and compared to cartridge cases located in separate chambers of a recovered revolver. Assuming certain facts, the sequence of firing could be established. The theory of an attempted murder and then suicide was not supported by this examination. The technique for producing test toolmarks, the agreement observed during the comparisons, and the consideration of subclass influence during the comparison process is presented.

Full Journal: AFTE Journal Vol 39 No 2 (2007)