FORENSIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SUICIDE BY HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTROCUTION IN TUNISIA AND ROLE OF MEDIA COVERAGE

Abstract

High voltage electrocution is a relatively scarce mode
of suicide which is surprising in view of the availability of means. Indeed, only a few cases are reported in
the forensic literature.
Objective: To identify the risk factors of suicide by
high voltage, its features and to highlight the huge
role of the media coverage in raising the prevalence of
this way of suicide.
Methods: Retrospective study, based on the autopsy
records of all suicidal high voltage electrocution cases
conducted over a period of eight years: from January
2007 to December 2015 at the forensic unit of Habib
Bourguiba Sfax.
Results: A total of 7 suicidal deaths from high voltage
electrocution occurred between 2007 to 2015, representing 0,7% of all cases of suicide. The distribution
was uneven depending on the year. In fact, in 2007, 3
cases were recorded in the same month. All the victims were single and young. The average age ofvictims
was 22, 28 years. Males prevailed. More than half of
them were unemployed, living in rural areas (4 victims). In two cases, a history of mental disorder was
found. However, no case of previous attempted suicide was mentioned.
The autopsy allowed us to identify in all cases the
association between extensive electric burns and
important traumatic injuries contributing together to
death.
Conclusion: Suicide by high voltage electrocution in
Tunisia is becoming an increasing problem in the last
years. It occurs in young age groups and the victims
are typically men. The springing of the number of suicide is due to the role of media coverage Proper preventive strategies to minimize such negative influence
of media reporting must be implemented.