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A look at the evidence: Two experts disagree on how Col. Michael Stahlman died

March 31, 2019 / 01:47

This episode discusses the investigation into the death of Colonel Michael Stallman, featuring forensic scientists Michael Maloney and Dr. Mark Reynolds. Key topics include the circumstances of the shooting, the potential for self-inflicted wounds, and the presence of gunshot residue.

Michael Maloney, a forensic scientist, shares details about the shooting incident, noting that Colonel Stallman was shot in the left temple despite being right-handed. He mentions the rarity of self-inflicted gunshot wounds with the opposite hand.

Dr. Mark Reynolds, a forensic consultant, provides insights into the investigation, emphasizing the need for further examination of the evidence. He discusses the significance of a white sash found at the scene and the presence of dark particulate matter.

The episode raises questions about the nature of the incident, with conflicting views on whether it was a suicide or homicide. Both experts highlight the complexities involved in determining the cause of death.

Overall, the episode presents a detailed look at forensic investigation methods and the challenges faced in understanding the circumstances surrounding Colonel Stallman's death.

TLDR

Forensic experts investigate Colonel Stallman's death, questioning suicide versus homicide with evidence of gunshot residue and unusual circumstances.

Episode

1:47
00:00:00
we're had Michael been shot he was shot in the left temple is he left-handed no he's not he's right-handed my name is
00:00:09
Michael Maloney and I'm a forensic scientist and I've investigated the death of Colonel Michael Stallman I very
00:00:15
much got the sense that Kim had some real concerns but that she really wanted to know what happened in Iraq to her
00:00:22
husband is it a rare incidence when a person shoots themselves with their opposite hand it's documented that those
00:00:31
cases certainly exist but it's not nearly as common as shooting yourself with your strong hand people will go to
00:00:37
great lengths to take their own life if they wish to take their own life and they will do things that might be
00:00:42
uncomfortable my name is dr. mark Reynolds I'm a forensic consultant and I investigated the death of colonel
00:00:49
Stormin my exposure to NCOs in this whole process was have a look at it and tell us what you find this white sash
00:00:58
down here what's the significance in your mind to this sash where it came from I have no idea when we look at this
00:01:06
cloth you can see this dark grey particulate matter you see it here particularly could it have been wrapped
00:01:11
around the weapon wrapped around the shooters hand held near the weapon I don't know but I know it was near the
00:01:16
weapon because it has gunshot residue on it it has what appears to be a dark-type
00:01:24
residue or material on it to take it any further than that is simply having a guess this is a homicide
00:01:32
there was someone else in that room I see no evidence of homicide in the materials provided to me whatsoever this
00:01:40
investigation requires further investigation

Episode Highlights

  • Forensic Insights on Suicide
    Forensic experts discuss the complexities of suicide investigations and the behaviors involved.
    “People will go to great lengths to take their own life.”
    @ 00m 37s
    March 31, 2019
  • Homicide Investigation Conclusion
    A forensic consultant reveals findings that suggest homicide rather than suicide.
    “This is a homicide; there was someone else in that room.”
    @ 01m 28s
    March 31, 2019

Episode Quotes

  • People will go to great lengths to take their own life.
    A look at the evidence: Two experts disagree on how Col. Michael Stahlman died
  • This is a homicide; there was someone else in that room.
    A look at the evidence: Two experts disagree on how Col. Michael Stahlman died

Key Moments

  • Forensic Analysis00:09
  • Suicide Discussion00:37
  • Homicide Findings01:28