Feared since ancient times for its sudden and unpredictable nature, sudden death remained medically poorlyunderstood at the beginning of the 20th century. A striking phenomenon due to its unexpected nature, it was frequently reported in the local press, where approximate medical explanations and social representations intersected.The aim of this study is to analyze the socio-medical representations of sudden death in newspapers in the Domfront district between 1900 and 1914.A case study was conducted based on two regional weekly newspapers (Le Courrier de Flers and L'Echo de la Ferté-Macé). Cases explicitly described as "sudden death," "natural death," or reported as sudden deaths with no identified external cause were included. Each case was coded according to age, sex, occupation, season, and reported causes.A total of 181 cases were identified. The majority involved men over the age of 50, most of whom were engaged in physically demanding occupations, particularly agriculture. Deaths were more frequent in autumn and winter. The medical terms used were mainly "congestion" and "apoplexy." Cold weather and alcohol were regularly cited as triggering factors.This study highlights a phenomenon that was common but medically poorly defined, even for practitioners at the time. The journalistic treatment of sudden death reflects both the limitations of medical knowledge and the influence of social and religious representations, with the press reporting these deaths in the news in briefs section.Beyond historical aspects, the epidemiology of sudden death has changed relatively little since the early 20th century. Cardiovascular risk factors have been identified since the mid-1950s. However, greater attention is now being paid to women's cardiovascular health. Psychosocial factors also remain relevant in general medicine, as sudden death continues to be a traumatic event due to its suddenness, requiring appropriate support for loved ones that goes far beyond religious considerations.