OBJECTIVE: The clinical phenomenon of homicide followed by suicide (HS) is examined through a case in which suicide was avoided despite the individual's will and actions. CASE DESCRIPTION: A man killed his girlfriend at the end of the relationship because of jealousy. After that, he attempted suicide. Special emphasis is given to the forensic aspects of the case, which has been assessed to determinate the individual's criminal responsibility and has been followed up at the Forensic Psychiatric Institute Dr. Maurício Cardoso, in Porto Alegre, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. COMMENTS: When the outcome of a typical case of HS is modified and the suicide of the murderer is not accomplished, two aspects become important: the legal consequences to be faced by the murderer and the management of the psychological impact on the survivor. Regarding prevention, the knowledge of HS and its associated factors require constant attention by mental health professionals. This report was authorized by the patient by means of informed consent.
Violence; forensic psychiatry; homicide; suicide; depressive disorder