Researchers studied bones from Shanidar Cave in Iraq. They belonged to Shanidar A, a Neanderthal, a kind of ancient human. This person lived about 75,000 years ago and died at about 45.
A shoulder bone has a round hole about 0.6 inches wide. Researchers think a wooden spear, a long weapon with a sharp end, probably made it. The wound likely killed Shanidar A. It may have been an attack or a hunting accident.
A tooth also broke badly during this person's life. Shanidar A lived for at least a year after that injury. Researchers think others probably helped with care. The body's place near other bodies suggests people also cared for Shanidar A after death.
