https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/a-spear-wound-likely-killed-this-neanderthal-but-it-tells-a-very-human-storyContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/a-spear-wound-likely-killed-this-neanderthal-but-it-tells-a-very-human-storyhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/a-spear-wound-likely-killed-this-neanderthal-but-it-tells-a-very-human-story#u136831Mon, 19 Oct 2026 18:20:43 +0000Archaeologists from the University of Cambridge discovered the remains of an adult Neanderthal in Shanidar Cave, Iraqi Kurdistan, who died more than 70,000 years ago. A round hole in the shoulder blade indicates a likely fatal wound caused by a wooden spear. While the injury suggests early homicide, healed facial trauma on the same individual indicates they received care and support to survive previous injuries. This discovery highlights a juxtaposition of violence and compassion within the species.Why it mattersThe find is significant because the shoulder blade is a fragile bone rarely found