Jumping and falling death in children, adolescents, and young adults

Abstract

Introduction

Evaluation of fatal jumps and falls from height in children, adolescents and young adults needs careful medico-legal investigation. The aim of this study was to examine the distribution of undetermined falling from height, accidental falling, and suicidal jumping cases between 1990–2003.

Methods

Copies of death certificates relating to falling from height and jumping deaths in Hungarian youths from the ages of 0–24 years of those resident in Hungary were obtained.

Results

215 (34.1%) accidental falls, 394 (62.6%) suicidal jumping, and 21 (3.3%) undetermined intent were investigated. A significant increase was detected in suicidal jumping death in the age group of 15–19 years (OR = 0.7, CI = 0.49–0.98, p = 0.039), and in the age group of 20–24 years (OR = 0.72, CI = 0.54–0.96, p = 0.025) in the most recent 5 year study period.

Conclusion

Data concerning the scene investigation, detailed forensic autopsy, and family history have important role in the differentiation of fatal jumping or falling cases. Further investigation about the characteristics injuries may help the final determination of violent death causes at youth, and more effort should be directed to an effective prevention strategy for jumping or falling death cases.