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Bodies removed from water show excessive gas production and tissue discoloration, owing to explosive bacterial gas production. The gas causes the bodies to bloat excessively, which can cause an explosion or sudden rupture of the tense abdomen. The pressure may cause the eye globes and tongue to protrude.

Fig.1 Bodies removed from water show excessive gas production.

A body in water generally decomposes more slowly due to the colder temperatures as well as the lack of oxygen. However, a body disposed in a septic tank or in waters containing large amounts of chemical waste or bacteria will cause accelerated decomposition. Marine life, especially crabs and lobsters, are known to nibble on “floaters” (bodies in the water).

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Fig.1

Human blow torch

| Decomposition | No Comments
The images show a jet of ignited putrefaction gas (methane) at the end of a needle inserted into…
Fig.1 Suicidal hanging of a young man.

Suicidal hanging of a young man

| Asphyxiation, Hanging, Suicide | No Comments
Suicidal hanging of a young man with the knees bent and the feet touching the floor. The hanging…
Fig.5 Incomplete decapitation with severe damage of the head and exenteration of the brain.

Incomplete decapitation with exenteration of the brain

| Accident | No Comments
Germany. On the afternoon of a bright day in early spring, a 69-year-old man was riding a motorcycle…
Fig.1 This victim’s body was found indoors during the summertime.

Putrefaction indoors in summertime after 60 hours since death

| Decomposition | No Comments
Note the bloated face of the deceased. This victim’s body was found indoors during the summertime. He had…