Unplanned Complex Suicide- A Case Report

Human suicidal behavior had always been a source of dread and wonder to mankind. Methods of suicide opted generally reflect the availability of the methods in the community and the mental make-up of the victim. The autopsy surgeon and the investigating agencies are posed with a challenge when multiple methods are opted for self-killing. The probabilities of homicide and accident had to be ruled out. Attributing the cause of death to the most lethal method amongst the multiple methods used is a rewarding task. A case of unplanned complex suicide by burn injuries and hanging, is presented and discussed. The cause of death was ascribed to hanging after a psychological autopsy and scene investigation.