Analysis of death cases involved in TASER in the State of Maryland

Objective To evaluate the features of autopsy cases involved in electronic weapon (TASER) in the State of Maryland, and to discuss the appraisable points. Methods Thirteen autopsy cases involving TASER were collected from 2004 to 2011 in the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland. All the cases include detailed scene investigations, complete autopsy, toxicological analysis and histopathological examination. Statistical analysis were conducted including general information of victim, type of TASER, type of contact, toxicological results, manner and cause of death. Results Majority of victims were male with an acute onset of agitated and delusional behavior. Drugs were often involved. Deaths were attributed to multiple factors. Conclusion Most of cases involved in TASER resulted from multiple fatal factors. Further researches are needed for the principal mechanism. Thorough scene investigation and complete autopsy examination play crucial role in evaluation of such cases.