Unusual case of death by grinder.

Abstract

Suicides by power tools such as grinders are rare and present significant challenges in forensic investigation. Accurate differentiation between suicidal, homicidal, or accidental injuries is crucial, particularly when the circumstances surrounding the death are ambiguous. We report the case of a 64-year-old man found dead in his workshop. The body was discovered lying near a grinder, with a deep cervical wound. The scene revealed multiple blood droplets scattered across the room, along with two large blood pools located approximately one meter from the body and a stepladder securing the discovery scene from the inside. Footprints were observed on the floor, further complicating the interpretation of the events. A complete forensic autopsy was performed to determine the cause and manner of death. External examination revealed a gaping cervical wound involving a partial sectioning of the left internal jugular vein, laceration of the anterior wall of the C6 vertebra, and complete transection of the trachea upon the autopsy findings. No signs of defensive injuries or indications of third-party involvement were identified. Scene findings and autopsy results were analyzed in conjunction with a review of the literature on suicides involving grinders and other power tools. Based on the injury pattern, absence of evidence suggestive of assault, and the scene reconstruction, the cause of death was attributed to hemorrhagic shock secondary to self-inflicted cervical trauma. The manner of death was concluded as suicide.