Flaccid paralysis (shooting)

Flaccid paralysis is a term used in tactical shooting when a headshot is taken and the bullet enters the cranial cavity in the "T-zone". T-zone shots are normally made in a situation where the suspect is armed and holding a hostage, usually at gun or knife point. The T-zone is roughly a T-shaped area from the outside of one eye socket to the outside of other eye socket and extending down the bridge of the nose to the upper lip. This area forms the "T" from which it derives its name. When the bullet enters the T-zone, it strikes the medulla oblongata causing flaccid paralysis. The advantage of flaccid paralysis is the subject is rendered incapacitated instantaneously preventing involuntary muscle contraction that may pull the trigger or cause other movements that may injure or kill the hostage. This is a difficult shot even by the best marksman and should only be attempted by trained personnel.

References

• "The Military and Police Sniper: Advanced Precision Shooting for Combat and Law Enforcement" by Mike R. Lau