Breathing mask in pictures – Who is responsible for the death of the young Swiss steward?

The momentous emergency landing of the Swiss aircraft LX1885 on December 23 at Graz-Thalerhof Airport still leaves questions unanswered. As is known, a steward (23) died a few days after the maneuver – smoke suddenly appeared in the plane – at the LKH University Hospital Graz. The autopsy revealed hypoxic brain damage due to severe oxygen deprivation to the brain and massive brain swelling. In addition, the man’s heart was severely enlarged and he suffered from purulent bronchitis.

Further investigation must first clarify whether there is a connection with the cause of death. Just like the question of what role the breathing mask worn by the deceased crew member played must be investigated. Because all 74 passengers were not wearing masks and they all survived. In general, the issue of respiratory masks is sensitive, as the airline announced in the fall of 2023 that the crew’s protective equipment was “partially defective.”

Another crew member, a woman, was in hospital for observation. It is unclear whether she was wearing a mask. Hansjörg Bacher, spokesperson for the Graz Public Prosecutor’s Office: “We have not yet been able to question the crew because they subsequently left the country. Swiss promised that everyone could be interviewed personally.”

Swiss authorities are conducting their own investigation
The machine itself has now been released by the Public Prosecution Service, as well as the engine, which will soon be inspected by the engine manufacturer in the US. Voice recorders and flight recorders came to Switzerland for further investigation. “We are also in contact with the Federal Security Investigation Service, which is investigating the incident independently of our criminal investigation,” Bacher added.

In addition, the Public Prosecution Service is exchanging views with the Swiss Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office, which will soon decide whether it will also initiate proceedings.