# Investigation into death in Lake Lugano

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/investigation-into-death-in-lake-lugano
> Updated: 2026-09-04T10:45:06.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 3.

A 52-year-old Swiss woman was found unconscious near the shore of Lake Lugano in Melide and subsequently died. The deceased, a resident of the Lugano region, had recently gained public attention for posting Instagram recordings of phone calls with State Councillor Claudio Zali, which included allegations of violence.

Authorities have now released forensic findings regarding the cause of death. The autopsy concluded that the death was caused by asphyxiation due to drowning. Medical examinations ruled out natural diseases, traumatic injuries, or biochemical-metabolic causes as the primary driver of the incident.

However, toxicological analysis revealed a “very high blood alcohol level” combined with the presence of benzodiazepines. While the benzodiazepines were found at therapeutic or sub-therapeutic concentrations, investigators noted that the combination with high alcohol levels likely impaired the woman’s alertness, coordination, and consciousness, serving as a “significant contributing factor to the drowning.”

In a related development, police are continuing an investigation into a reported attack against the woman on August 8, which involved potential charges of attempted serious bodily harm and simple bodily harm. That case remains directed against unknown perpetrators.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-04: Lake Lugano drowning: Toxicology report cites alcohol and benzodiazepines

Forensic reports indicate a Swiss woman found in Lake Lugano died from drowning, likely exacerbated by high alcohol levels and the presence of benzodiazepines.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lake-lugano-drowning-toxicology-report-cites-alcohol-and-benzodiazepines

### 2026-08-29: Lake Lugano: Authorities investigate death of 52-year-old woman

Investigators in Ticino believe a 52-year-old woman found in Lake Lugano likely died by drowning, while a separate probe continues into an attack reported against her in August.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lake-lugano-authorities-investigate-death-of-52-year-old-woman

### 2026-08-19: Swiss woman dies in Lake Lugano drowning

A 52-year-old Swiss woman, previously linked to controversial audio recordings involving politician Claudio Zali, has died after drowning in Lake Lugano near Melide.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/swiss-woman-dies-in-lake-lugano-drowning

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Cite as: Investigation into death in Lake Lugano. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/investigation-into-death-in-lake-lugano