An Analytical Study of Homicidal Deaths Autopsied

Abstract

Homicide is the most heinous and often the most violent crime committed against a person by another person. Incidence of homicide is increasing day by day and is becoming a major threat to the harmony of society. In the present study, homicidal deaths occurred over a period of 5 years, i.e. from 2008 to 2012 in and around Tirupati region were analysed. During the study period, the incidence of homicidal deaths was 4.02% with a male-to-female ratio of 1.96:1. Most common age group to be involved was 30-39 years. The most frequent method of homicide was use of blunt weapons (38.03%), followed by use of sharp weapons (25.15%), asphyxial methods (11.03%). Personal enmity (20.24%), extramarital affairs (18.40%), love affairs (18.49%) and financial disputes (12.26%) were among the common motives behind the act. Incidence of homicide was more common during night times (56.98%) and at place of living of victim or assailant (43.55%). Most of the victims (85.88%) remained totally deprived of any medical help.