Medico-Legal Update

Smothering is a form of asphyxia which is caused by closing the external respiratory orifices either by the hand or by other means, or blocking up the cavities of the nose and mouth by the introduction of a foreign substance. It can be Homicidal, Accidental or Suicidal. As such, homicide by smothering is possible when victim is incapacitated from drinks or drugs, very weak, child or old person, in ill health and when the victim is stunned by blow.

We encountered a case of smothering in a 39 years old male who was found dead in mysterious circumstances at under-constructing temple near water pool after attending a party with his friends. The body was referred from district Hospital to Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak for postmortem examination by experts. On postmortem examination diffuse contusions were noticed over face along with teeth marks and laceration over inner aspect of lower lip. Deceased was also having head injury accompanied by multiple contusions over limbs and back. The cause of death was opined as smothering coupled with head injury.