Detection of Gunshot Residue on Dark-Colored Clothing Prior to Chemical Analysis

作者：Kersh Kyla L^*; Childers James M; Justice Dale; Karim Greg

来源：Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2014, 59(3): 754-762.

DOI：10.1111/1556-4029.12409

• firearm
• forensic science
• gunshot residue
• gunpowder residue
• alternative light source
• primer residue

Detection of gunshot residue (GSR) is an arduous task for investigators. It is often accomplished with chemical tests, which can reveal elements and ions indicating the presence of GSR, but are likely to cause physical alteration to the pattern. In this study, the Spex Forensics Mini-CrimeScope MCS 400, along with 16 accompanying wavelength filters, was applied to various GSR patterns and target types. Three dark shirt materials, four ammunition calibers, and eight ammunition manufacturers, along with the primer residue of the different manufacturer ammunitions were tested. Results indicate the alternate light source wavelength of 445nm to be the optimal setting. In addition, target material plays a large role in the preservation of GSR patterns as particles burn. Furthermore, it can be extrapolated that residue, observed from a full round and firing distance of six inches, is mostly composed of unburnt gunpowder residue, not primer residue.

• 出版日期2014-5
• 单位司法部司法鉴定科学技术研究所