INDIA, 2020 34-year-old man in India shot himself in the forehead with an illegally made homemade firearm. He placed the weapon directly against his head, so the shot occurred at point-blank range and the bullet passed through the skull from front to back and exited in the occipital area of the head. At the entry site, there were signs typical of contact gunshot wounds, such as burning and tissue rupture caused by gases from the weapon.
The family could not explain why it happened, and therefore a forensic autopsy was performed. It confirmed that the injuries were consistent with suicide. In addition, microscopic gunshot residue (GSR) particles were found on the deceased’s hands, which get onto the skin during shooting or handling a weapon.
These particles were confirmed in a laboratory using electron microscopy, which demonstrated the presence of typical elements of gunpowder and metals. All findings together indicated that the man most likely shot himself.
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
Talking about what you're going through might feel difficult, but it’s the first step toward healing. Don’t turn away from the people who want to support you. Life can offer more than what you're feeling right now, and the pain doesn't have to last forever. You deserve help, and it’s available.
If you need immediate help, please contact a helpline.
