Firearm-related fatalities: An autopsy-based study

Abstract

Background: Firearm-related violence poses a growing public health and law enforcement challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh, where limited data impedes targeted prevention efforts. Aim of the study: To assess the incidence, patterns, and demographic characteristics of firearm-related fatalities in Bangladesh using medicolegal autopsy data. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 167 confirmed firearm fatality cases from autopsy records at a tertiary hospital over one year. Data on age, sex, injury location, range of fire, and associated trauma were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Result: Young adults aged 21–30 years (31.74%) and 31–40 years (28.14%) were most affected. Most victims were male (70.66%) and urban residents (69.46%). Multiple-site injuries were found in 66.47% of cases, with neck and chest involvement in 16.77%. Intermediate-range gunshot wounds predominated (64.67%). Violence-related lesions were observed in 68.86% of cases, indicating primarily homicidal intent. Conclusion: Firearm-related deaths in Bangladesh disproportionately affect young urban males and are marked by high lethality and targeted violence. Strengthened firearm regulation, enhanced surveillance, and urban violence prevention programs are urgently needed.