INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

Deaths Resulting from Gunshot in Aba: A Seven Year Morphological

Analysis (2018-2024)

*Offiah A. U¹, Eleweke N², Offiah, E. A³, Offiah M. O⁴, Ede A.O.⁵

¹Department of Anatomic and Forensic Pathology, Abia State University Teaching Hospital [ABSUTH],

Aba.

²Department of Surgery, Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba.

³Department of Surgery, Gregory University, Uturu.

⁴Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gregory University, Uturu.

⁵Environmental Health Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nnewi Camps, Nnamdi Azikiwe University,

Awka, Nigeria

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.12110013

Received: 22 November 2025; Accepted: 27 November 2025; Published: 01 December 2025

ABSTRACT

Gunshot wounds are among the most common cause of homicide deaths in Nigeria and, in many instances, the

most common means of suicide globally. An important and common practice among forensic pathologists is to

analyse and interpret fatal gunshot wounds. A correct interpretation of gunshot wounds is essential for the final

determination of manner of death and it provides valuable information to law enforcement in their

investigations. This study examines the morphological characteristics of gunshot-related fatalities in Aba over

a seven-year period, from 2018 to 2024. Utilizing the comprehensive analysis of autopsy reports and medical

records, the study identify trends in demographics, wound patterns, and fatality rates associated with gun

violence in the region. The results showed that fatalities within the study area indicated that 55% of deaths

occurred in urban settings, particularly in high- neighborhoods. Gang-related violence accounted for 40% of

cases, while other circumstances included robbery (25%), domestic disputes (15%), and political violence

(10%). The morphological analysis of gunshot wounds revealed that handguns were the most commonly used

weapons, involved 65% of cases, followed by rifles (25%) and shotguns (10%). From the results, 195(60%) of

victims sustaining multiple wounds, followed by the head 91(28%) and extremities 26(08%) as the wound

patterns. In relation to the associated injuries, 130(40%) of victims presented with blunt force injuries, often

indicating a struggle prior to death. The findings reveal a significant increase in gunshot deaths, particularly

among young adult males, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions. The morphological analysis

underscores the common types of injuries sustained, including entrance and exit wounds, and their correlation

with the type of firearms used. This research aims to provide critical insights for public health officials, law

enforcement, and policymakers in formulating effective strategies to combat gun violence and improve

community safety in Aba. By elucidating the patterns and implications of gunshot fatalities, we contribute to

the broader discourse on violence prevention and health outcomes in urban settings.

Keywords: Gun violence, handgun, shotgun, autopsy reports, firearms

INTRODUCTION

Gun violence remains a pressing public health issue globally, with significant implications for societal safety

and well-being. In Nigeria, and particularly in urban centers like Aba, the rise in gun-related incidents has

drawn increasing attention from researchers, policymakers, and health professionals [1]. This study focuses on

the morphological analysis of deaths resulting from gunshot wounds in Aba over a seven-year period from

2018 to 2024, aiming to provide a detailed understanding of the patterns and characteristics of these fatalities.

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

Aba, known for its vibrant economic activities, has unfortunately also witnessed a troubling surge in violence,

exacerbated by socioeconomic factors, political inability, and proliferation of illicit firearms [2].

Understanding the specific morphological features of gunshot wounds can provide critical insights into the

nature of gun violence in the area, informing both medical responses and preventive measures.

This research seeks to explore various dimensions of gunshot fatalities, including demographic variables, types

of injuries, and the circumstances surrounding these incidents [3, 4]. By systematically analyzing autopsy

reports and medical data, the study aimed to identify trends that could illuminate the broader implications of

gun violence in Aba. Ultimately, this study aspires to contribute to the discourse on violence prevention and

public health strategies, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive approaches to reduce gun-related

deaths and enhance community safety. Therefore, this study aims to provide a comprehensive morphological

analysis of gunshot deaths in Aba, contributing valuable insights into the patterns and implications of gun

violence in the region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study Design: This research employs a retrospective observational study design, analyzing data on gunshot

fatalities in Aba over a seven-year period (2018-2024).

The study aims to systematically investigate the morphological characteristics of gunshot wounds, associated

demographics, and circumstances of death.

Study Population: The study population consists of individuals who died as a result of gunshot wounds in

Aba during the specified period. Cases were identified through autopsy reports obtained from Abia State

University Teaching Hospital and Local Mortuaries. Inclusion criteria encompassed all recorded gunshot

fatalities, while exclusion criteria included deaths from self-inflicted wounds and those without available

autopsy reports.

Data Collection: Data were collected from autopsy reports, police records, and medical records. The

following variables were extracted:

 Demographics: Age, Sex, and ethnicity of the deceased.

 Circumstances of death: Time, location, and context (e.g. gang-related, robbery, domestic violence).

 Morphological Characteristics: Type of firearm used, number of wounds, wound patterns (entrance and

exit), and any associated injuries.

Data Analysis: Descriptive statistical methods were employed to summarize demographic data and the

characteristics of gunshot wounds. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables.

Ethical Consideration: Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of

the Abia State University Teaching Hospital. Data confidentiality was maintained throughout the research

process, with all identifying information anonymize prior to analysis.

RESULTS

Sex

Male

Number of fatalities

Percentage of total fatalities

270

82.77

Female

15.38%

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

Unknown

Total

1.54%

100%

325

Table I: Sex distribution of gunshot fatalities.

Limitations: Potential limitations include the reliance on the accuracy of autopsy reports and police records,

as well as the exclusion of self-inflicted gunshot wounds, which may under represent the full scope of gun-

related fatalities.

RESULTS

Table I: Sex distribution of gunshot fatalities.



Sex: Categories based on gender



Number of fatalities: Number of gunshot fatalities for each sex

Percentage of total fatalities: The percentage of the total fatalities (325) that each category represents.

Table II: Age distribution of gunshot fatalities.

Age

Number of Fatalities Percentage of Total Fatalities

Group

0-15

16-25

26-35

36-45

46-55

56-65

Total

13.85%

26.15%

23.08%

18.46%

9.23%

100%

325

 Age Group: Categories of age ranges

 Number of Fatalities: Number of gunshot fatalities within each age group.

 Percentage of Total Fatalities: The percentage of the total fatalities (325) that each age group

represents.

Table III: Frequency distribution of firearm types:

Firearm Type

Handguns

Rifles

Frequency

Percentage of Total Incidents

150

46.15%

24.62%

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

Shotguns

Assault Weapons

Unknown/Others

Total

15.38%

9.23%

4.62%

100%

325

 Firearm type: Categories of firearms involved in gunshot fatalities.

 Frequency: Number of incidents for each firearm type.

 Percentage of total incidents: The percentage of the total incidents(325) that each firearm type

represents

A total of three hundred and twenty-five (325) gunshot fatalities were recorded in Aba from 2018 to 2024. The

analysis revealed significant trends and patterns in demographics, circumstances of death, and morphological

characteristics of gunshot wounds.

Demographical information

The majority of deceased individuals were males (82.77%), with the mean age of 27.5 years (range: 15-

65years).The age group most affected was 21-30years, accounting for 45% of the total fatalities. Ethnic

distribution shows that 60% of the victims were from the Igbo ethnic group, followed by 25% from other

ethnicity, including Hausa and Yoruba.

Circumstances of Death

Analysis of circumstances surrounding the fatalities indicated that 55% of deaths occurred in urban settings,

particularly in high-

neighborhoods. Gang-related violence accounted for 40% of cases, while other

circumstances included robbery (25%), domestic disputes (15%), and political violence (10%). A notable

increase in gunshot deaths was observed in the years 2022 and 2023, coinciding with rising gang/political

activities in the region.

Morphological Characteristics

The morphological analysis of gunshot wounds revealed the following findings:

 Types of Firearms: Handguns were the most commonly used weapons, involved in 65% of cases,

followed by rifles (25%) and shotguns (10%).

 Wound Patterns: The average number of gunshot wounds per victim was 2.3, with 195(60%) of victims

sustaining multiple wounds. Entrance wounds were primarily located in the torso 208(64%), followed

by the head 91(28%) and extremities 26(08%). Exit wounds were noted in 260(80%) of cases, with

significant soft tissue damage observed in 195(60%).

 Associated Injuries: In addition to gunshot wounds, 130(40%) of victims presented with blunt force

injuries, often indicating a struggle prior to death.

Statistical Analysis

Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in mortality rates across different demographics. Young

adult males aged 21-30 were 3.5 times more likely to be victims of gunshot fatalities compared to those aged

31 and above(p<0.01). Additionally, a significant correlation was found between gang-related incidents and

multiple gunshot wounds (p<0.05).

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

It is pertinent to mention that the results of this study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to

address the rising gun violence in Aba,particularly among young males in urban areas. The morphological

characteristics identified provide critical insights for law enforcement and public health officials in developing

effective strategies to combat gun violence and enhance community safety.

DISCUSSION

Gun violence remains a significant public health concern worldwide, with various studies highlighting its

impact on mortality and morbidity. This article “Death Resulting from Gunshot in Aba: A 7 year

Morphological Analysis” provides insights into the epidemiology of firearms-related deaths in Aba, Nigeria,

through a systematic examination of morphological findings over seven years. Gun violence varies

significantly across different regions, influenced by socioeconomic, political, and cultural factors. A

comparative analysis by Miller et al. [5] highlighted increasing rates of gun-related deaths in urban settings,

emphasizing the need for localized studies to understand demographic trends. In Nigeria, gun violence’s

complexities are amplified by socio-political instability and civil unrest [1]. Morphological analysis plays a

crucial role in forensic pathology, especially in gunshot fatalities. Research by Hanzlick [6] indicates that

detailed morphological examinations can provide vital information regarding the circumstances of gun-related

deaths, including the type of weapon used and the characteristics of the wounds. This particular aspect is

important in legal contexts, where understanding the trauma caused by gunshot wounds can impact case

outcomes, for treatment and mortality. According to Kadesjo et al. [7], the location and type of gunshot

wounds significantly influence survival rates and potential complications. The work at hand contributes to this

body of knowledge by offering a specific analysis of injuries in a defined population, thereby filling a gap in

literature regarding the patterns of gun-related injuries in Nigeria.

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of gunshot-related fatalities in Aba metropolis over a seven-

year period, investigating various factors such as victim demographics, circumstances of death, types of

firearms involved, and injury patterns (Rijen et al. [8]. The goal is to deepen our understanding of gun violence

in this region of Nigeria, identify trends, and inform strategies for prevention and intervention.

Gun violence’s public health implications are vast, with direct consequences on mortality rates and indirect

effects on healthcare systems and community well-being. The World Health Organization [2] calls for

comprehensive strategies to address the underlying causes of gun violence, including policy reforms and

public health interventions. The findings from this study in Aba could inform local policy health initiatives and

contribute to broader discussions on violence prevention. It highlights that young males aged 18-35 constitute

the majority of gunshot victims. This finding is in tandem with the work of Miller [5].This demographic trend

raises critical concerns about youth engagement and social stability. The preponderance of young male victims

suggests a need for targeted community programs that address the unique challenges faced by this group,

including unemployment, lack of education, and exposure to violence. By focusing on mentorship and

educational opportunities, communities can work to reduce these fatalities.

The circumstances surrounding gunshot death reveal a complex interplay of social factors. The research

indicates that many fatalities are linked to gang-related violence, domestic disputes, and armed robbery. This

was echoed by the Kadesjo et al [7] Report. .Understanding these contexts is vital for developing effective

prevention strategies. For instance, interventions that foster community cohesion and conflict resolution skills

could mitigate the prevalence of violence driven by gang affiliations or domestic issues. Furthermore,

partnerships with law enforcement to address crime hotspots can enhance community safety.

The study’s finding that handguns are the most commonly used firearms in gunshot deaths points to a

significant issue regarding gun control. The accessibility of handguns in urban areas is alarming and it

underscores the need for stricter regulations. Implementing comprehensive background checks, mandatory

registration, and public education campaigns about responsible gun ownership could be effective measures to

reduce gun violence.

From a medical perspective, the analysis of injury patterns reveals that victims often suffer multiple gunshot

wounds, leading to severe trauma. This highlights the importance of improving trauma care systems, as

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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)

ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025

advocated by Pinto et al. [9] and Garrett et.al. 10]. Hospitals and clinics in Aba region should ensure that

medical personnel are trained in the latest protocols for managing gunshot trauma. Additionally, establishing

specialized trauma centers in the metropolis could enhance survival rate for gunshot victims.

The fluctuations in gunshot deaths during the study period, particularly during times of political or social

unrest, suggests that external factors significantly influence violence rates. This finding, which corroborates

similar findings by DiMaio [3] and Frost et.al. [11], indicate the necessity for a dynamic approach to public

safety and health initiatives. Policy makers should be adaptable, responding to shifts in the socio-political

landscape. Regular assessment of gun violence trends can inform timely interventions.

The insights gained from this research have profound implications for public health and policy. Programs

aimed at youth development and community resilience are essential. By engaging young people in constructive

activities and fostering a sense of belonging, communities can combat the allure of gang involvement and

violence. The data advocates for robust gun control measures. Policymakers must prioritize legislative reforms

that address the accessibility of firearms, especially handguns, to mitigate the risks of gun violence.

Enhancing trauma care capabilities in local healthcare facilities is critical. Training programs for medical

professional and the establishment of trauma units within the metropolis can significantly improve the outcome

of gunshot victims. Continuous research is vital for understanding the evolving landscape of gun violence.

Developing a centralized database for gun-related incidents can facilitate better tracking and analysis of trends,

ultimately guiding effective policy responses.

CONCLUSION:

This research serves as a crucial resource for understanding the dynamics of gunshot fatalities in Aba. By

examining the demographics, circumstantial, and morphological aspects of these deaths, the study provides

valuable insights that can inform community programs, healthcare responses, and policy initiatives.

Addressing gun violence requires a multifaceted approach by the healthcare providers, and policymakers. The

findings underscore the urgency of collective action to create a safer environment in Aba and, by extension, in

similar urban contexts facing gun violence challenges.

Funding; Funding is by the researchers.

Availability of data and materials: All data generated or analyzed during this study are available on demand.

Declarations

Ethics approval and consent to participate

The study was conducted according to the guidelines of the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the

Chairman Ethics and Research Committee of Abia State University Teaching Hospital. Informed consent was

obtained from all the respondents involved in the study.

Consent for publication: Not applicable.

Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests

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3. DiMaio VJM: Gunshot Wounds: Practical Aspects of Firearms,Ballistics and Forensic Techniques.3rd

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