Investigation Launched After American Woman’s Death
Swiss authorities have initiated an investigation following the death of a 64-year-old American woman, reportedly through the use of a controversial “suicide capsule.” The incident marks the device’s first use, designed by Australian Philip Nitschke, in the Swiss town of Merishausen near the German border.
The woman, who had been suffering from a severe medical condition, reportedly chose to end her life willingly. In a statement to her lawyers, she emphasized that the decision was made with the support of her two sons. According to her lawyer, Fiona Stewart, a psychiatrist had evaluated the woman and confirmed her mental fitness to make this decision.
Arrests and legal proceedings
Swiss police have arrested several individuals in connection with the case, as they explore possible criminal offenses related to assisted suicide. The police in the canton of Schaffhausen have not released the identities of those detained.
Present at the scene was Florian Willet, a prominent member of Last Resort, affiliated with Exit International. It remains unclear if Willet is among those arrested. He later described the woman’s passing as “peaceful, quick, and dignified.”
Philip Nitschke, the inventor of the capsule, publicly stated on X, “It had been an idyllic, peaceful death in a Swiss forest.”
In Switzerland, assisted suicide is legal under specific conditions. The law permits the practice as long as the individual independently takes their life and the assistance is provided without any “self-serving motive.”
If you or someone you know requires support for mental well-being, it is crucial to reach out to professionals. Contact local authorities or a suicide prevention hotline for assistance.