Neanderthal found in Iraqi cave was killed by a 'heart shot' wooden spear 75,000 years ago, Cambridge researchers say

A 15mm circular hole through the left shoulder blade of a Neanderthal who died approximately 75,000 years ago may be the earliest recorded case of a human ancestor killed by a sharpened wooden spear. Cambridge archaeologist Dr Emma Pomeroy, who led the study published in Scientific Reports, believes the weapon was driven downward into the chest, puncturing a lung and major blood vessels before exiting through the left shoulder blade, causing rapid death. The individual, known as Shanidar A, was recovered from Shanidar Cave in Iraqi Kurdistan, buried beneath nearly eight metres of rock and sediment. Prof Graeme Barker identified interpersonal violence as the most probable cause, while acknowledging that friendly fire and accident remain possible.

At least a year before his death, the same individual had suffered a forceful impact to the face, fracturing and displacing front teeth — evidence that other Neanderthals had cared for him while he recovered.

'We see evidence of two contrasting facets of human nature — care and violence — juxtaposed in the same individual,' Dr Pomeroy said.

At least five Neanderthals were laid to rest in the same small depression behind a boulder over a period of years, suggesting deliberate, ritualised treatment of the dead.