'Assisted suicide' suspect Wangen claims 'gray zone' in alleged crimes

Norwegian national Steinar Wangen, described as an "assisted suicide" facilitator, is facing trial in Norway for his alleged role in the death of a woman in Trollhättan, Sweden. Wangen, who is awaiting a verdict in a separate Norwegian assisted suicide case from late 2024, traveled to Sweden shortly before the woman's death.

During initial interrogations, which have now been made public, Wangen acknowledged his actions but asserted that he operated within a "gray zone" and therefore bears no guilt. Prosecutors, however, view the case as a clear instance of murder. They allege that Wangen not only provided advice on medications but also placed a pillow over the woman's face, ultimately ending her life.

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A gray zone

In addition to the Trollhättan case, Wangen is accused of encouraging four other individuals in Sweden to commit suicide. He was indicted for these actions last week. The investigation into these cases has revealed details about Wangen's methods, including sending lethal doses of medication via mail.

One of the individuals, a woman from Västerås, described Wangen as "unpleasant and pushy." Despite her initial thoughts of ending her life, she stated she did not intend to act on them. Nevertheless, she received medication from Wangen. The package, containing pills and an anti-vomiting aid, was found by police in December 2024 after Wangen's arrest. The Västerås woman is now scheduled to testify against him in the upcoming trial.

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So that I thought, God, I just hope he doesn't come to Sweden and come here and murder me.