Sarco Suicide Pod: US Woman Becomes First Person to End Life Using Swiss ‘Suicide Capsule’, Several Arrested
A 64-year-old American woman has become the first person to end her life using the controversial ‘suicide pod’ in Switzerland, leading to several arrests on suspicion of inciting and aiding suicide.
Merishausen, September 25: A 64-year-old American woman has become the first person to end her life using the controversial "suicide pod" in Switzerland, leading to several arrests on suspicion of inciting and aiding suicide. The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, used the 3D-printed chamber, called Sarco, on Monday at a private woodland retreat near Merishausen, close to the Swiss-German border.
Prosecutors in Schaffhausen have launched criminal proceedings against several individuals for "inducing and aiding suicide," according to a police statement. Several people have been detained, though details about the suspects or the deceased have not been provided, reported CNN.
The Sarco pod, short for sarcophagus, allows its user to end their life at the press of a button, without medical supervision. Assisted suicide has been legal in Switzerland for decades, but the use of the Sarco pod has sparked ethical and legal concerns, as active euthanasia remains prohibited in the country. Suicide Pod Sarco To Be Used for the First Time in Switzerland, Know All About the Portable Capsule That Causes Death by Hypoxia.
Swiss police were alerted to the incident by a law firm, and following the woman's death, they opened a criminal investigation. Authorities stated that several individuals have been arrested and are being held on charges of incitement and aiding suicide. British Couple Sign Up to Die in Double ‘Suicide Pod’ After Wife’s Dementia Diagnosis.
The Last Resort, an assisted dying organisation that introduced the Sarco pod in Zurich earlier this year, confirmed the woman's death. In a statement, the group described her as suffering from long-term, severe immune system complications. The organization said the death was "peaceful, fast, and dignified," taking place outdoors in a serene forest setting.
The Sarco pod, which can be activated from inside by the user, has ignited debate over its ethical implications. Its creators argue that it offers a "dignified" option for individuals wishing to end their lives, but activists are concerned about the potential for misuse and the lack of medical oversight in the process.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 25, 2024 04:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).