ASIS International (ASIS) Professional Certified Investigator Practice Exam

What occurs when there is a rupture of blood vessels due to strangulation?

1. Asphyxia

2. Cyanosis

3. Petechia

4. Adipocere

The correct answer is: Petechia

When blood vessels rupture due to strangulation, the result is often the formation of petechiae. Petechiae are small, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots that appear on the skin or mucous membranes. They occur as a result of minor hemorrhages, where blood leaks from small blood vessels into the surrounding tissue. In the case of strangulation, increased pressure in the vessels can lead to these small ruptures, particularly in areas that are under heightened pressure, such as the eyes, face, or neck. This phenomenon highlights the relationship between physical stress on the body and the physiological responses that follow. Therefore, the presence of petechiae serves as a strong indicator of asphyxia or trauma, reinforcing the importance of recognizing these physical signs during an investigation. Other options, such as asphyxia and cyanosis, refer to the overall lack of oxygen and resultant changes in skin color, respectively, while adipocere describes a specific type of post-mortem decomposition. Hence, the combination of vessel rupture and the visible manifestation through petechiae provides crucial evidence in forensic investigations.