C.a. 1995. This individual died during autoerotic activity, it is possible the individual was inhaling some chemical inside the plastic bag, to get a high for enhancing sexual sensation. Autoerotic practitioners often inhale aerosol propellants, chemicals, and gases to induce euphoric effects. Different props are commonly utilized to render the inhalation more efficient: masks, plastic bags, items of clothing. The most commonly used chemical compounds in the context of autoerotic practice are hydrocarbons, anesthetic compounds, and other chemical inhalants. Autoerotic death refers to the accidental death of individuals of either sex due to failure of devices, or unexpected effects of materials, that were being used to enhance the sexual experience.
Fig.1 The state the deceased was found in.
Fig.2 The man had a plastic bag over his head.
Although asphyxia from hanging has been described most frequently, a wide variety of other lethal situations have been reported. As there is great variability in the number and types of sexual aids that may be used by individuals, careful death scene examination is essential in helping to exclude suicide and more rarely homicide.
Fig.3 Skin blisters and decomposition.
Fig.4 Unknown substance in a tube next to the deceased.
Fig.5 A roll of tape.
The clandestine nature of this paraphilia may, however, make subsequent identification and diagnosis difficult unless the death scene features are typical. This is particularly so in the rare cases involving women.
Fig.6 Items next to the deceased.
Fig.7 A woman’s purse.
A plastic bag placed over the head leads to suffocation by mechanical occlusion of the external airways; the plastic bag will obstruct the passage of air through the nose and mouth. In a scene of suffocation by plastic bag, particular care should be taken to describe and document the type of plastic bag; the position of the bag in relation to the head, mouth, and nose; and if the plastic bag is secured or not at the neck. If a ligature is present to enclose the bag, the type of ligature, with its loops and knots, should be described. Knots on the plastic bags should be documented as well. If the victim is obviously dead, the plastic bag should not be removed from the head before proper photographic documentation.
Fig.8 A magazine.
Fig.9 The living room where the deceased was found.
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