An experimental investigation of the indirect transfer and deposition of gunshot residue: Further studies carried out with SEM–EDX analysis

In this research study, as many as 22 particles were found to have undergone tertiary transfer via a series of handshakes following a firearm discharge. Significant numbers of particles were also recovered from bystanders, with as many as 36 being detected on a sample taken from an individual who was in the proximity of a firearm discharge. These findings indicate the need to prevent unwanted transfer during the collection phase. The importance of acknowledging the possibility of secondary and tertiary transfers when reconstructing firearms incidents is also stressed.