Inmate dies at Bois-Mermet prison in Lausanne

A 34-year-old Moroccan national died after being found unconscious in his cell at the Bois-Mermet prison in Lausanne on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

Prison staff discovered the man alone in his cell around 1:40 p.m. and immediately attempted resuscitation efforts before summoning emergency medical services. Despite these measures, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A criminal investigation has been launched by the public prosecutor's office to determine the exact circumstances of the death. Preliminary findings suggest that the involvement of third parties can currently be ruled out. The investigation involves the criminal police, forensic services, and forensic medicine.