The first woman to use the controversial "suicide pod" in Switzerland, a 64-year-old American, may not have died as intended. An autopsy revealed strangulation marks on her neck, sparking speculation about equipment malfunction or interference. The Sarco pod, developed by Dr. Philip Nitschke, is designed for terminally ill patients to end their lives peacefully.
The incident occurred on September 23 in a secluded forest area near the Swiss-German border. Dr. Florian Willet, president of The Last Resort, an assisted-dying group, was the only person present. Swiss police arrested several individuals shortly after the pod was used, including Dr. Willet, who remains in custody.
The pod operates by releasing nitrogen gas, causing the user to fall asleep and die due to oxygen deprivation. However, the autopsy findings suggest that strangulation could be a factor, raising questions about the circumstances of her death. A forensic expert testified that the woman had severe neck injuries.
Key points:
First woman to use "suicide pod" in Switzerland found with strangulation marks on her neck
Autopsy sparks speculation about equipment malfunction or interference
Dr. Florian Willet, president of The Last Resort, present during incident and in custody
Swiss law prohibits assisted suicide with external assistance or self-serving motive.
Surveillance footage from two cameras, one inside the pod and another on a nearby tree, showed the internal camera activating twice in quick succession around two minutes after the woman pressed the button. Dr. Willet informed police that the woman's body appeared to cramp strongly, a typical reaction in nitrogen-related deaths.
The investigation, led by Swiss Chief Prosecutor Peter Sticher, is ongoing, with suspicions of Intentional homicide. Swiss law prohibits assisted suicide if external assistance is involved or if those assisting have any self-serving motive. The prosecutor's office has refrained from making an official statement.
Reference:
1. BBC News. "Several arrested after woman dies in suicide pod." BBC News. Accessed October 11, 2024. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8144v9pveo.
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