Trends in Homicide Patterns: A Retrospective Study of Victimology and Crime Scene Analysis

Abstract

Background: Homicide patterns are a critical area of forensic research, providing insights into the factors influencing violent crime and aiding in the development of targeted prevention strategies. This study focuses on analyzing trends in homicide victimology and crime scene characteristics at Radha Devi Jageshwari Memorial Medical College & Hospital, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, over a period from March 2023 to July 2024. Understanding these trends is essential for addressing the underlying causes of violence and improving public safety.

Method: A retrospective study was conducted using data from 270 homicide cases recorded at the institution. The study analyzed demographic characteristics, crime scene patterns, and modus operandi. Data were collected from medical records and police reports, and statistical tools such as chi-square tests were employed to identify significant correlations between victim demographics and crime scene elements.

Results: Younger victims (ages 0-19) were more likely to be victims of stabbing incidents (chi-square = 12.75, p = 0.02). Male victims were predominantly attacked in the evening (chi-square = 8.67, p = 0.04). Higher socioeconomic status was significantly associated with urban crime scenes (chi-square = 15.34, p < 0.01). Lower education levels correlated with blunt force trauma (chi-square = 10.89, p = 0.03).

Conclusion: This study highlights important patterns in homicide trends, showing that age, gender, socioeconomic status, and education level significantly influence the nature of violent crimes. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and further research to address these patterns effectively. Future studies should expand the geographical scope and improve data collection methods to enhance the generalizability of the results. These insights can inform better prevention strategies and contribute to more effective crime intervention practices.