David Carradine’s death now appears to be accidental, a result of autoerotic asphyxiation, according to the Washington Post and other news sources. Police in Bangkok, where the death occurred report that cords were found around Carradine’s neck and genitals.
Autoerotic asphyxiation refers to an extremely dangerous practice whereby the individual is brought close to asphyxiation supposedly to enhance the sexual act. Bangkok has a reputation as a center of prostitution and sex tourism.
Everyone, especially parents of teenage boys, should be aware of the extreme danger of autoerotic asphyxiation, also known as scarfing or breath control play. Studies have shown that the practice results in as many as 250-1000 deaths in the United States alone. The vast majority of deaths is among males.
This paper outlines some important warning signs for parents and teachers to look out for:
- Unexplained marks on necks
- Often but not always women’s clothing and/or pornography in closet, under bed
- Short ropes, padded ropes, neckties tied in odd knots
- Bloodshot eyes
- Complaints of headaches
- Locks on bedroom doors
- Evidence of repetitive hanging such as unexplained marks on the neck or broken or multiple rope abrasion on closet rods
There has been litigation regarding this practice when publications have been accused of causing the death.
This post is for purposes of promoting safety. Contact a lawyer if you need legal advice.
As a partner with Bradshaw & Bryant, Joe Crumley has over 30 years experience helping injured people and their families to secure just and fair compensation. Excelling in personal injury litigation, Mr. Crumley has secured numerous record-setting verdicts and settlements and won accolades such as MTLA’s “Trial Lawyer of the Year” and “Excellence” Awards.
4 Comments
Daniel 8791
It certainly appears now that David Carradine likely died the same way that Michael Hutchence, lead singer of the popular rock group INXS; did back in the late 1990's in Sydney Australia.... I think this is very good post with important reminders and tips for parents to look out for, and hopefully it can prevent this type of tragedy from occuring so much in the future.
Joe Crumley
Thanks for your post, Daniel. We can only hope that some good comes out of this tragedy.
Steve Lombardi
Grasshopper, your post is written well. I'm wondering if there is available a police report? Seems Mr. Carradine knew it was time for him to leave.
I honor of Mr. Carradine's work I'm going to post my own Grasshopper. Because as you know each man is free to live life as he chooses... more to come. Do you hear that grasshopper at your feet?
Joe Crumley
Thanks, Steve.
All humor aside, the New York Times reports Carradine's family asking for investigatory help from the FBI and a private forensics expert.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/08/arts/08arts-002.html
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