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In a startling incident in Pilsen, Czech Republic, an 88-year-old woman was nearly buried alive after being mistakenly declared dead. The elderly woman, whose name has not been released, was found unresponsive by her partner at their home. Emergency services were called, and a coroner pronounced her dead, according to The Daily Mail.
However, as funeral workers prepared her body, they noticed she was breathing. The woman reportedly opened her eyes as she was placed in the coffin, prompting workers to alert emergency services. She was then taken to a hospital, where she is said to be recovering well.
The incident has led to an investigation by local police into the coroner's actions, with suspicions of a failure to render assistance. The company employing the coroner has apologized and promised consequences.
Ambulance spokesman Martin Štěpán stated that the operations center followed standard procedures during the initial call. Once the funeral workers discovered the woman was alive, emergency medical services were dispatched to ensure her basic life functions.
The case has drawn attention to the procedures followed in declaring deaths and the importance of thorough checks. Police spokeswoman Michaela Raindlová confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and the legal qualification of the case has yet to be determined.