Atypical suicide by thermal injury to the femoral artery caused by a hot glue gun: A case report and review of the literature

Analyzing suicidal behavior and methods is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of this complex phenomenon, which affects over 700,000 individuals annually and ranks among the leading causes of death worldwide. The global scope of this issue explains why suicide represents a significant public health concern and why it is so important to unveil the complex mechanisms behind its occurrence. We report a case of a fatal thermal injury to the left femoral artery, self-inflicted with a hot glue gun. The uniqueness of this case lies primarily in the instrument used, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been reported in the literature as a means of suicide. In fact, the only previously documented case involving a hot glue gun resulted in non-fatal injuries inflicted in a context of maltreatment. Furthermore, the anatomical region involved is unusual, as self-inflicted injuries typically target specific "elective sites" based on the chosen method. Forensic experts may occasionally encounter atypical suicide cases involving unusual methods or tools, as well as morphologically peculiar injuries. Reporting such cases is essential for expanding our knowledge of the subject, providing valuable references for medico-legal practice, and improving preventive strategies.