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Summary: The autopsy report states:
- Male 24 yr.
- Entry gunshot wound of upper mid-chest, lacerating ascending aorta and pulmonary artery
- Laceration of tracheal bifurcation and esophagus
- Residual hemopericardium and bilateral heraothorax.
- Large caliber bullet recovered
- Cause of death:
- Perforation of aorta due to gunshot wound of chest
Comment:
- Was this a professional sniper's ideal shot?
- The autopsy does not include an estimate of the time of death
Summary and Comment: The DOJ Report states:
- Page 52: "At 5:53 p.m. Schneider informed the negotiators that Peter Gent's body had been found at the edge of the building within the compound. Gent had been shot and killed, presumably by the ATF, during the initial shootout on February 28. Schneider wanted to remove the body and give it to the FBI; however, the negotiators refused this request unless two persons, who would remain outside, accompanied the body. Koresh refused to allow this; therefore, Peter Gent's body remained on the grounds."
- Page 58: "On March 8, ... 11:04 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Three men left the compound and buried the body of Peter Gent."
- Page 313: "Branch Davidians Killed During February 28 Shootout ... Peter Gent, an Australian citizen, died of a gunshot wound of the chest. Gent had been shooting at the ATF agents from the tower, when an ATF sniper shot him. His body was identified from dental records. He was 24 years old."
Indeed, a "sniper" was included in the gang of agents to serve a search warrant on this religious community. The full military preparation with multiple tanks, more than 100 armed agents, armed helicopters, a military-style "diversion," and snipers is not consistent with the government's claim that the agents were "ambushed."
Summary and Comment: The Inquest Certificate states:
- Cause of death:
- Perforation of aorta due to gunshot wound of chest
- Manner of death:
- Non criminal homocide
Bone chart and
medical glossary available on line.
Anomalies in the Forensic Process may also be
helpful.