Mechanical asphyxia is a form of asphyxiation in which an external factor prevents normal breathing by hindering chest or abdominal expansion.
November 24, 2025
high
definition
A medical/forensic definition explaining the mechanism of mechanical asphyxia.
Mechanical asphyxiation can occur in both homicidal and non-homicidal circumstances, and whether criminal charges are filed for a death involving mechanical asphyxiation is a decision made by prosecutors.
November 24, 2025
high
legal
Clarifies that the medical finding of mechanical asphyxiation does not by itself determine criminal culpability; charging decisions are legal determinations.