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Experimental Forensic analyses

Rib wound caused by a serrated long-bladed knife using a straight thrust motion

Knife stab wounds on pig torsos (Sus scrofa)

Rib wound caused by a short-bladed knife using a downward thrust motion

This experimental research consisted of stabbing pig torsos (Sus scrofa) with three types of knives and by applying two types of motions.

Trauma created by each knife and motion was recorded and studied. Each torso had excess fat removed. The samples were also covered with light cotton fabric.

Rib wound caused by a long straight-bladed knife using a straight thrust motion

This research has impact because its methodology with reference to sample preparation had not been previously attempted for knife stabbings.

All previous research of this type has centred on the effects upon soft tissue only, or upon bone; the latter not accurately replicating real circumstances.

This research is linked to work on Macroscopic Characteristics of Screwdriver trauma.

Related outputs

  • R. Ferllini. 2012. Macroscopic and Microscopic Analysis of Knife Stab Wounds on Fleshed and Clothed Ribs. Journal of Forensic Sciences 57(3): 683-690.
  • Exhibition of stabbed ribs (samples) at Leventis Gallery, Institute of Archaeology, 2010-2011.

Funding

  • UCL Institute of Archaeology

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