[Tijeras_Slim]

Given the nature of the perp (low life low rent), I'd say the AR barrel length was 16", that is the most common on the less expensive models. The ammo was probably 55 grain full metal jacket, again the cheapest stuff around... and at 10' (assuming no ricochet) going 3200 feet per second with an energy of ~1200 foot pounds.

Here is a photo of a jihadi reportedly shot at close range with an M4 (the military version of the AR-15). WARNING VERY GRAPHIC

http://i397.photobucket.com/albums/pp57/IkeMcgowan/sniper_shot2_292.jpg

If her head is intact, and the bullet fragmented and the bulk of it was in the skull as opposed to retaining it's shape and exiting. The ricochet story may have merit.

[Chasaway]

Thanks...

That fits.

I can’t make a straight shot work without some powder/bullet variant.

And I can’t see this guy having that.