A pedestrian suffered serious injuries after ending up under a bus in Mikkeli, Finland. Police describe the incident as a tragic combination of unfortunate circumstances.
Investigators say the adult victim was lying rather than standing on the roadway near the center line. The individual wore no reflective clothing and visibility was poor during the rainy, dark evening.
Police Commissioner Timo Häkkinen called it an accident that surprised all parties. He stated the victim experienced "incredibly bad luck from multiple perspectives."
The injured person is not in acute life-threatening condition. Authorities have been able to speak with them directly.
Police are investigating the case as negligence causing injury but found no evidence of intentional action by either party. The bus was traveling at normal urban speed limits and not approaching any stop.
Five passengers were on the bus besides the driver. None sustained injuries in the incident that occurred around 6:45 PM on Tupalantie road.
Authorities suspect substances may have played a role in how the person ended up lying on the roadway. The investigation continues to determine whether the victim was run over by tires or otherwise crushed beneath the vehicle.
Emergency response efforts faced challenges from numerous curious onlookers. Rescue officials had to remind the public to give rescue workers space to operate effectively.
Many children and young people witnessed the scene. Social services provided contact information for those who may need support after the disturbing event.
This accident highlights the dangers pedestrians face when on roadways not designed for foot traffic, especially during poor visibility conditions. The combination of dark clothing, bad weather, and an unexpected road position created a perfect storm of risk factors.