GERMANY Tragic case inspired by the Japanese ritual of seppuku occurred in northern Germany. The man constructed a complex mechanism: he joined cabinets with a tilting hinge, mounted a samurai sword on top, and created a rope-activated system designed to ensure the sword would strike his heart upon falling. He repeatedly practiced the position to ensure his plan would work.
In addition, he used a Japanese combat knife to inflict two deep cuts on his abdomen. The first cut struck the inferior vena cava, causing an intestinal herniation, while the second opened the upper abdominal cavity. He then activated the rope, triggering the sword’s fall.
His parents discovered his body in a meticulously staged scene. The autopsy revealed that he was not under the influence of alcohol, but toxicological tests showed high levels of amphetamines and traces of cocaine, indicating long-term drug issues.
This case highlights the man’s fascination with Japanese culture and his struggle with addiction, which likely contributed to his tragic decision.
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
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