An Unusual Method of Suicide: Cable Ties

Authors

Nicole R. Jackson, From the Office of the Medical Investigator, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
Ian D. Paul, From the Office of the Medical Investigator, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2020

Abstract

Suicidal ligature strangulation is a relatively rare event-far more common is suicide by hanging or homicidal ligature strangulation. With the increasing rate of suicide in the United States, use of atypical ligatures is likely to increase as well. Herein, we present such a rare case, a man who died by tightening cable ties around his own neck, and discuss the necessity of full scene and autopsy investigation to ensure proper certification of manner of death.

Recommended Citation

Jackson NR, Paul ID. An Unusual Method of Suicide: Cable Ties. Am J Forensic Med Pathol. 2020 Sep;41(3):223-226. doi: 10.1097/PAF.0000000000000558. PMID: 32530824.