Unspecified larger firearm discharge, undetermined intent digital illustration

Unspecified larger firearm discharge, undetermined intent Save


ICD-10 code: Y23.9

Chapter: External causes of morbidity and mortality

Unspecified Larger Firearm Discharge, Undetermined Intent

Unspecified larger firearm discharge, undetermined intent refers to a type of gunshot wound where the type of firearm used is unknown and the intent behind the discharge cannot be determined. This type of wound is often encountered in forensic investigations and can be challenging to investigate due to the lack of specific information about the firearm and the intent of the shooter.

There are several reasons why a larger firearm discharge may be classified as unspecified. For example, the firearm used may have been destroyed or not recovered from the scene of the shooting. Alternatively, the wound may be so severe that it is difficult to determine the type of firearm used, or the shooter may have used a homemade or improvised weapon that is difficult to identify.

The undetermined intent aspect of this type of wound refers to the difficulty in determining whether the discharge was accidental, intentional, or the result of negligence. In many cases, the intent behind the discharge cannot be determined due to a lack of evidence or conflicting information.

Investigating an unspecified larger firearm discharge with undetermined intent requires a thorough analysis of all available evidence. This may include witness statements, physical evidence at the scene of the shooting, and any other relevant information that can help to piece together what happened.

  1. Interviewing witnesses: Investigators will often interview witnesses to the shooting to try to determine what happened. This may involve talking to anyone who was present at the time of the shooting, including friends, family members, and bystanders.
  2. Examining physical evidence: Forensic investigators will examine physical evidence at the scene of the shooting, including any bullet casings, blood spatter, and other evidence that may help to identify the type of firearm used and the direction from which the shot was fired.
  3. Reviewing medical records: Investigators will also review the medical records of the victim to try to determine the severity of the wound and any other information that may be relevant to the investigation.

Overall, an unspecified larger firearm discharge with undetermined intent is a complex and challenging type of gunshot wound to investigate. However, with the right approach and careful analysis of all available evidence, investigators can often piece together what happened and determine the cause of the wound.