Three women died on Friday afternoon when a double-decker bus crashed into a bus shelter in central Stockholm. The tragic accident occurred during afternoon hours when the bus veered off its route. Emergency services responded immediately to the scene near a major university hospital area.
Police confirmed the victims' identities on Monday after days of investigation. Two women were 65 years old, while the third victim was 55. Authorities have notified relatives of the two older women. The 55-year-old woman's family lives in another European country, requiring coordination with international police services.
A police spokesperson described the intensive efforts to identify the victims and locate their families. Investigators worked through the weekend to complete this sensitive process. The spokesperson expressed sympathy for all affected by this tragedy.
One victim worked for the Swedish Prosecution Authority, while another was employed at a nearby university hospital. Colleagues at both workplaces expressed profound grief. The prosecution authority confirmed the entire office is mourning their lost coworker.
Beyond the three fatalities, three additional people sustained injuries. Two remained hospitalized on Monday, though medical staff described their conditions as stable. The accident scene required extensive cleanup and investigation.
Technical examinations of the bus are now underway. Authorities caution it's too early to determine whether mechanical failure contributed to the crash. The investigation will analyze all potential factors behind this Stockholm bus crash.
The driver was questioned Saturday at a hospital before being released. Police have not disclosed the driver's statements. Officials stated Saturday that nothing indicates intentional action caused the collision.
Witnesses described a terrifying sequence where the bus traveled 40 meters onto the sidewalk after hitting the shelter. The vehicle struck several trees before finally stopping when it hit a light pole. The impact caused significant damage to both the bus and surrounding infrastructure.
The bus operator Transdev previously stated the driver was heading toward a break when the accident occurred. The company is cooperating fully with the investigation. This incident raises questions about bus safety protocols in urban areas.
Stockholm has generally maintained a strong public transportation safety record. This tragic event marks one of the city's worst bus accidents in recent memory. The investigation continues as authorities work to prevent similar tragedies.
Public transportation safety requires constant vigilance despite Sweden's generally excellent record. This accident serves as a sobering reminder that tragedy can strike even in well-maintained systems. The community now mourns while awaiting answers about what went wrong.