Euthanasia campaigner found dead

Voluntary euthanasia campaigner Ralph Vincent was found dead yesterday.

A relative said Mr Vincent, 86, who lived in a campervan at a campsite in Queen St, Richmond, left a notice to say that he had committed suicide and did not want any attempts made to revive him.

Last year, after a long investigation, police decided not to prosecute Mr Vincent over the death of his wife Vicky, who in September 2002 was found dead with a plastic bag over her head in their home. She had been seriously ill for several years.

His son-in-law, Peter Gibbs, said today Mr Vincent had been "a bit low" over the past week or so.

He recently had a minor operation and had been concerned about his declining abilities.

"He didn't like being less strong and he always believed strongly that a person should make his own decision."

Mr Gibbs said he and his wife invited Mr Vincent to visit them yesterday afternoon and stay for a few days.

When he did not arrive, they had asked some friends who lived near Mr Vincent to check up on him.

He left his campervan unlocked and that was when the notice saying he intended to take his own life was discovered.

Nelson coroner Ian Smith said today he had opened an inquiry. An inquest would be held and he would make no further comment before then.

The investigation into Mrs Vincent's death centred on whether it was suicide or assisted suicide.

Last year Mr Vincent said his sole remaining aim was to advance the cause of voluntary euthanasia.

He travelled to Australia to address a seminar for Exit, the voluntary euthanasia organisation, and also became a supporter of New Zealander Lesley Martin who was jailed for attempting to murder her terminally ill mother.

Police said they were not seeking anyone else in connection with Mr Vincent's death.

- NZPA