French anaesthetist Frédéric Péchier stands trial in Besançon, accused of poisoning 30 patients between 2008 and 2017. Authorities claim 12 victims died, with ages ranging from 4 to 89. Péchier could face life imprisonment if convicted.
Investigation Triggered by Routine Operation
Authorities began investigating after 36-year-old Sandra Simard suffered cardiac arrest during surgery in January 2017. Tests revealed potassium in her anaesthesia bag. Prosecutors allege Péchier sabotaged infusion pouches to damage colleagues, then intervened in resuscitations, appearing as a savior.
Péchier Denies All Charges
The 53-year-old, banned from practising medicine, maintains his innocence and vows to prove it. His defence says he intends to fight the allegations. Victims’ lawyers describe the trial as “dizzying” because of its scale and complexity. Proceedings are expected to last until December.
