I read an interesting comment [by obm, shortened here] that stated that “drop” hangings (as opposed to “suspension” hangings) are rare and account for only 1% of all hangings. [Sorry, no link to justify this statistic.] They went on to say that a drop hanging would most likely result in a broken neck. A suspension hanging would most likely result in death by asphyxiation.
A “drop” hanging in this case could be if RN leapt from or was launched from the balcony.
A “suspension” hanging in this case could be if RN stepped off or was pushed off the table in the courtyard.
[Therefore, put my suggested scuba diver maneuver, namely back-flipping from balcony with noose tied around neck, into the 1% statistic.]
The commenter went on to say, in essence:
Staged suicidal hangings are often to disguise an impulsive murder and difficult to pull off without leaving signs of drugging, struggle or improbable injury. [Anyone have lots of scratches? Bruises? Missing hair?]
Also stated:
A victim would need to be in an unconscious state to be forcibly hung, which would be identified in autopsy or toxicology findings.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/24/aftermath-coronado-mansion-deaths-some-it-noir/
A “drop” hanging in this case could be if RN leapt from or was launched from the balcony.
A “suspension” hanging in this case could be if RN stepped off or was pushed off the table in the courtyard.
[Therefore, put my suggested scuba diver maneuver, namely back-flipping from balcony with noose tied around neck, into the 1% statistic.]
The commenter went on to say, in essence:
Staged suicidal hangings are often to disguise an impulsive murder and difficult to pull off without leaving signs of drugging, struggle or improbable injury. [Anyone have lots of scratches? Bruises? Missing hair?]
Also stated:
A victim would need to be in an unconscious state to be forcibly hung, which would be identified in autopsy or toxicology findings.
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/24/aftermath-coronado-mansion-deaths-some-it-noir/