Police in northern Switzerland have detained several individuals and opened a criminal case following the suspected death of a person in a new 'suicide capsule.' The capsule, known as 'Sarco,' is designed to allow a person inside to push a button that injects nitrogen gas into the sealed chamber, leading to death by suffocation in a few minutes.
Authorities in Schaffhausen canton were alerted by a law firm about an assisted suicide involving the Sarco capsule that took place near a forest cabin in Merishausen. The incident has prompted an investigation into potential charges of incitement and accessory to suicide.
A Dutch newspaper reported that one of its photographers was detained by police while attempting to capture images of the Sarco's use. The photographer is currently held at a police station, with further details undisclosed.
Exit International, a Netherlands-based assisted suicide group, developed the 3D-printed Sarco device at a cost exceeding $1 million. Swiss law permits assisted suicide as long as it is carried out without 'external assistance' and without any self-serving motives from those aiding in the process.
Dr. Philip Nitschke, the founder of Exit International, stated that legal advice from Swiss lawyers affirmed the Sarco's legality in the country. However, Swiss prosecutors have warned that operating the suicide capsule could result in criminal proceedings and up to five years of imprisonment upon conviction.
Earlier this year, a 54-year-old U.S. woman with severe health conditions had planned to be the first user of the Sarco but ultimately abandoned the idea. The use of the Sarco capsule has raised legal and ethical concerns in Switzerland and other regions, with potential repercussions for those involved.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help from the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for online support. In Switzerland, inquiries about suicide prevention can be directed to 'Dargebotene Hand,' or The Offered Hand.
