Patient dies after machine unplugged

An Italian doctor said yesterday he switched off the life-support system of a terminally ill man to end a life he described as "torture", after a legal battle for the muscular dystrophy sufferer's right to die failed.

The doctor denied it was illegal euthanasia and witnesses said Piergiorgio Welby, who was paralysed but still lucid, said, "Thank you" three times to his friends and supporters before slipping away yesterday.

Dr Mario Riccio could face between 10 and 15 years in jail since euthanasia is illegal in Italy, and is banned by the Vatican.

- AGENCIES