Electrocution Related Death at Sylhet M.A.G.Osmani Medical College: A 5-YearRetrospective Analysis

Background: Electrocution is a significant yet preventable cause of unnatural death, particularly in developing countries. Young working-age males are disproportionately affected due to increased occupational exposure and inadequate electrical safety measures. This study aims to evaluate the pattern, demographics and autopsy findings of electrocution-related deaths over a five-year period in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Sylhet M.A.G. Osmani Medical College, covering cases from January 2019 to December 2023. Data were collected from postmortem reports, inquest findings, and hospital records. Variables such as age, sex, marital status, location of incident, type and site of injuries and manner of death were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 69 electrocution deaths were recorded during the study period. Males constituted 94.2% of the victims, with the highest incidence in the 20–29-year age group. Most deaths were accidental, occurring on roads (55.07%) and in households (44.9%). Entry burn marks were found in 82.6% of cases, most commonly on the upper extremities, while exit wounds predominantly involved the lower limbs. Work-related accidents accounted for over half of the cases. Conclusion: Electrocution remains a leading cause of accidental death among young males in Sylhet. The findings align with regional trends in South Asia. Standardized documentation, enhanced public awareness, and stricter workplace safety regulations are essential to reduce such fatalities. Future prospective studies with more detailed data collection are recommended Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.25 (2); July 2026; Page 21-24