Delhi Blast Post-Mortem Reveals Ruptured Lungs and Close-Range Explosion Evidence

Nine people lost their lives while 20 others sustained injuries in the explosion near Delhi's Red Fort Metro Station.

New Delhi:

Forensic experts from Maulana Azad Medical College revealed that victims of Monday evening's blast near Delhi's Red Fort Metro Station primarily experienced ruptured eardrums and lungs, suggesting the explosion occurred at extremely close range. The post-mortem reports indicated damage to lungs, ears, intestines, and abdominal regions in several victims, further confirming the proximity of the blast.

Experts noted that injuries were predominantly concentrated on the upper body, head, and chest areas.

The blast claimed nine lives and left 20 people injured. Harrowing scenes showed dismembered bodies and severed body parts at the site. Among the deceased, some died instantly at the scene, while others succumbed to severe blast injuries and excessive blood loss during hospital treatment. Authorities have identified six victims and released their bodies to family members.

Medical experts observed a cross-injury pattern on several victims' bodies. This pattern indicates individuals collided with walls or the ground due to the blast's impact, resulting in fractured bones and significant head trauma in numerous cases.

Notably, forensic specialists found no fragments of conventional explosives on the victims' bodies or clothing.

Initial investigations suggest that the perpetrators may have employed a novel or modified explosive substance in the attack.

A Forensic Science Laboratory official stated that both ammonium nitrate and high-grade explosives were utilized in the blast. The FSL team has collected over 40 samples from the site, including two cartridges, live ammunition, and explosive materials.

"One explosive sample appears to be ammonium nitrate. The second sample is believed to be more powerful than ammonium nitrate, with its exact composition pending confirmation through detailed forensic analysis," an official explained.

The explosion occurred at 6:52 PM on Monday - coinciding with the discovery of 2,900 kg of explosives just 50 km from the capital in neighboring Haryana's Faridabad. Sources indicated that Dr. Umar Mohammad, the suspected suicide bomber, reportedly panicked and triggered the explosion near Red Fort after investigators apprehended two key members of the network - Dr. Muzammil Shakeel and Dr. Adil Rather - and seized their explosives.

Top intelligence sources told NDTV that initial assessment of the blast site suggested the suspects may have panicked and made errors while handling the explosives. The suspect appears to have incorrectly assembled the improvised explosive device (IED), resulting in its limited impact.