NCJ Number
131248
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 4 Dated: (July 1991) Pages: 1020-1026
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
A case report is presented of gunshot residue (GSR) compositions other than those mentioned in the literature.
Abstract
Five cartridge cases of 7.65 mm LV Geco ammunition were found at the scene of an attempted murder by shooting. Witnesses told investigators that the suspect fired the weapon from inside a vehicle. Samples from the suspect's hands and car seat covers and GSR from the cartridges car were analyzed for GSR articles by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX). Lead, antimony, and barium with trace amounts of aluminum, silicon, iron, copper, and zinc are usually characteristic for the composition of GECO GSR. Particles from the suspect's hands contained only one particle of this composition. However, many particles containing tin, nickel, or both in addition to lead, barium, and antimony were found in the seat covers. This result shows an inconsistency with the GECO GSR composition, but suggests compatibility with the GSR composition of Sellier Bellot, Prague (SBP) ammunition. Because mixed GSR compositions can be formed during the firing of different types of ammunition in the same weapon, discharge particles other than those from the ammunition used can be found at the scene of a crime. This fact must be considered when interpreting case results. 9 figures and 11 references (Author abstract modified)