Missile head injury is predominantly caused by firearms; however, small blunt objects such as a stone can be propelled into the air and cause a low-velocity-type missile injury, as described in this case report. Since the cerebral damage in low-velocity missile injuries is usually focal, there might not be disturbance of consciousness until secondary brain damage occurs; therefore, adequate medical supervision is necessary to prevent and treat potentially fatal complications in a timely manner. This is a rare case of a penetrating missile wound of the head, most likely caused by the use of a stone propelled by a slingshot that penetrated the skull and lacerated the brain with the stone embedded within the substance of the brain. The deceased died at home 2 days later from focal suppurative meningitis with cerebral abscess formation and a subdural hemorrhage.

Muti killings are a form of murder committed by certain African tribes in South Africa and other African countries. Body parts for medicinal and ritualistic purposes are removed whilst the victims, mostly women and children, are still alive. The authors report the case of a 10-year-old boy who was found in an unconscious state in the undergrowth near a rural village in Limpopo, South Africa. He had several injuries which included the removal of his private parts and severe head injuries. The incidence, etiological and cultural factors, predisposing conditions and legal questions arising from such deaths are discussed.