Sudden Illness Suspected as Cause of Fatal Bus Crash in Central Stockholm

Authorities are investigating a tragic bus accident that took place in central Stockholm, resulting in the deaths of three women between the ages of 55 and 65. Two of the victims were identified as employees at the Karolinska University Hospital and the Swedish Prosecution Authority, while the third woman, from another European country, has yet to be fully identified as her family is still being sought.

The accident occurred after the driver had just completed route 670 from Vaxholm and was maneuvering the double-decker bus within a designated bus lane. Despite the presence of geofencing technology, which restricts the bus speed to a maximum of 20 kilometers per hour in the area, the vehicle collided with a bus shelter, leading to fatal consequences.

Initial internal communications from the bus company Transdev suggested that the crash was caused by the driver experiencing a sudden medical emergency. However, later statements from company representatives clarified that this conclusion had not yet been definitively confirmed, and the investigation remains active. The driver, who also required hospital care, is still under medical supervision.

Two additional individuals sustained injuries in the incident and are reported to be in stable condition as they continue to receive treatment. The police have transferred responsibility for the case to the regional traffic unit, which is conducting a technical examination of the bus to identify any potential contributing factors.

Senior prosecutor Carolina Frohm is overseeing the legal aspects of the case, where suspicions of involuntary manslaughter currently remain, although investigators do not suspect any intentional wrongdoing at this stage. The investigation is focusing on gathering witness statements and technical evidence to establish a clear sequence of events.

The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority is also collecting relevant data to determine if a full inquiry is warranted. The agency indicated that, regardless of whether a medical emergency is confirmed as the cause, it will assess whether existing safety barriers could have prevented the accident or if further measures are necessary.

Colleagues and local organizations have responded to the tragedy by offering support to affected employees and their families. The labor union Kommunal has visited bus depots in the region to provide assistance to staff.

According to other bus drivers familiar with the area of the incident, the location is challenging for all types of road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists, due to high traffic density and the complex layout. The site is regularly frequented by commuters traveling to and from Östra station, which increases the likelihood of congestion and possible risks.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover all details surrounding the fatal accident and implement any necessary safety improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.