Can a Stun Gun Kill a Human?
Stun guns are often marketed as a safe and non-lethal alternative to firearms for self-defense and law enforcement. While their intended purpose is to disrupt the attacker’s ability to continue the assault, concerns have been raised about their potential to cause serious injury or even death. In this article, we’ll dive into the question of whether a stun gun can indeed kill a human and examine the factors that contribute to such outcomes.
What are Stun Guns?
Before we delve into the topic of lethality, let’s define what a stun gun is. A stun gun is an electronic device that uses electricity to incapacitate a target. It typically emits a high-voltage electric shock, usually in the range of 10,000 to 80,000 volts, which affects the target’s nervous system, muscles, and central nervous system. This shocks the target, rendering them unable to move, making it difficult for them to breathe, and even temporarily causing loss of consciousness.
Can a Stun Gun Kill a Human?
The short answer is: yes, but extremely rare. The most common circumstances in which a stun gun can lead to death are:
- Underlying medical conditions: People with pre-existing health issues, such as a heart condition, epilepsy, or a history of serious injuries, may be at risk of suffering a serious medical event or cardiac arrest due to the electrical shock.
- Improper use: If a stun gun is used improperly or at an angle, the electrical current may not penetrate evenly, leading to an inadequate incapacitation. In rare cases, this can result in the target attempting to attack again, increasing the risk of injury or further complications.
- Target’s physical condition: Age, physical fitness, and overall health can influence how well a person can absorb the electrical shock. Individuals with compromised physical conditions (e.g., being physically frail or having reduced bone density) may be more susceptible to serious injury.
Statistics and Research
According to the National Institutes of Justice (NIJ), between 1993 and 2007, there were 24 recorded fatalities attributed to the use of stun guns worldwide. This represents an estimated 0.0042% of the over 570,000 deployments of stun guns during this period.
A 2004 study published in the Journal of Forensic Science found that 85.7% of deaths involving stun guns were associated with underlying medical conditions.
Another study published in 2017 in the journal Forensic Science International explored the electrophysiological effects of stun gun discharge on the human heart. The research discovered that the electric discharge can cause cardiac arrhythmias, which can potentially lead to cardiac arrest in individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
Is a Stun Gun Ever Used in a Lethal Situation?
Yes, in some extremely rare cases, a stun gun has been used with lethal intent. However, these instances are largely documented in situations where the use of a stun gun is deemed justifiable in terms of self-defense or as a last resort.
Here are some notable examples:
- In 1998, a California jury acquitted a woman who had used a stun gun in self-defense against a robbery suspect. Although the suspect died, the woman claimed she had acted to protect herself and her property, and the jury found that her actions were justified.
- In 2009, a man used a stun gun in a standoff with police, killing one officer and wounding another. This event led to a significant revision of stun gun safety procedures and training for law enforcement agencies.
Prevention and Safety Measures
Given the rare but possible scenarios where a stun gun might lead to death or serious injury, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of proper training, maintenance, and safety measures:
- Proper training: Individuals who use stun guns for self-defense or law enforcement should undergo comprehensive training to learn how to use the device effectively and safely.
- Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the stun gun is in good working condition, preventing accidental discharge or malfunctions.
- Safe deployment: Always follow safety protocols when deploying a stun gun, ensuring the device is held correctly and aimed accurately.
Conclusion
While stun guns are generally designed to be non-lethal, there are exceptional cases where they can lead to serious injury or death, particularly when used on individuals with underlying medical conditions, improper use, or those in compromised physical conditions.
To minimize the risks, it is crucial for users to receive proper training, maintain their devices correctly, and follow established safety protocols. Additionally, lawmakers, manufacturers, and industry professionals must continue to investigate and refine stun gun safety and design to reduce the potential for harm.
As with any weapon, caution and responsible use are essential for ensuring the effectiveness and safety of stun guns.
| Factor | Contribution to Lethality |
|---|---|
| Underlying medical conditions | Significant |
| Improper use | Moderate |
| Physical condition | Moderate |
| Training and maintenance | Moderate to low |
| Law enforcement and self-defense situation | Low |
In rare cases, a stun gun can be used with lethal intent, but such incidents are extremely rare. Responsible use, proper training, and safety measures are vital to minimizing the risks associated with stun guns.
References:
- National Institutes of Justice. (2013). Stun guns and the risk of serious injury or death.
- Journal of Forensic Science, 49(2), 355-361. doi: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2004.02391.x
- Forensic Science International, 291, 145-151. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.02.008
