Ricochet bullet
Definition: A ricochet bullet is a bullet that strikes an intermediate surface and rebounds or deviates before hitting the target.
Features
- After striking a surface the bullet loses velocity.
- Its direction becomes altered.
- The bullet may become deformed.
- The entry wound may be irregular.
- The abrasion collar may be atypical.
Medicolegal importance
- Makes interpretation of the trajectory difficult.
- May produce unusual entry wounds.
- Important in reconstruction of shooting incidents.
Kennedy phenomenon
Definition: Kennedy phenomenon refers to the production of multiple exit wounds by a single bullet.