The initial woman to pass away using a “suicide pod” in a Swiss forest was discovered with unexplained strangulation marks on her neck. This incident marked the first known usage of a Sacro pod, raising uncertainties about the 64-year-old American woman’s demise. The process is intended to be swift and painless, achieved by flooding the lungs with Nitrogen gas.
Following an autopsy in November 2024, findings of strangulation marks on her neck led to speculations about potential malfunction or interference. Dr. Florian Willet, associated with The Last Resort organization behind the pods, reported that during the procedure, the woman’s body experienced strong cramping after about two and a half minutes. Subsequently, an alarm sounded on the pod’s iPad approximately six and a half minutes into the process.
Dr. Willet, in communication with Dr. Philip Nitschk, expressed concern about the woman’s condition when the alarm went off, indicating she was still alive. The alarm ceased after 30 minutes, with Dr. Willet confirming her apparent decease. Dr. Willet, the sole individual present during the incident, was detained by the police for 70 days.
The pod, created by Dr. Philip Nitschke, was located in a secluded forest area near a cabin in Merishausen, Switzerland, close to the German border. It is operated by The Last Resort, a Swiss assisted-dying group, designed to offer users a peaceful passing upon pressing an internal button, leading to sleep and eventual death due to oxygen deprivation.
Dr. Nitschke mentioned that Dr. Willet faced psychological distress following the events, leading to a tragic outcome. Despite suggestions of potential foul play by Swiss Chief Prosecutor Peter Sticher, Dr. Willet was not charged with any crime. Expert testimony revealed that the pod had been opened and closed multiple times before the procedure, with forensic analysis indicating severe neck injuries on the woman.
Surveillance footage captured the incident, showing the internal camera’s activation shortly after the process began, although details remained unclear. Swiss law prohibits assisted suicide involving external assistance or any self-serving motives from those involved.
For individuals in need of assistance, The Samaritans offers 24/7 support. Contact them for free at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org, or visit their website to find the nearest branch. Remember, your well-being matters.