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Stockholm Bus Crash: Driver Released Amid Ongoing Investigation
Following a tragic bus accident in Stockholm that resulted in three fatalities and left three others injured, the bus driver involved has been freed from custody. The incident occurred on Valhallavägen, where the vehicle collided with a group of people waiting at a bus stop.
The Swedish Prosecution Authority announced on Saturday that after thorough questioning, there was no justification to detain the driver further. However, investigations are still underway to clarify the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
The driver had initially been detained on suspicion of causing three deaths and inflicting bodily harm on three individuals. Authorities have indicated that there is no evidence suggesting the crash was deliberate.
Details of the Incident and Victim Identification Efforts
Emergency responders continue to work on identifying the victims involved in the accident. Reports confirm that the bus was out of service at the time, with no passengers aboard.
The collision took place near the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) at approximately 15:23 local time (14:23 GMT). Eyewitness footage and photos reveal rescue teams assisting people trapped beneath the double-decker bus.
A local shop owner, who witnessed the event, described to SVT how the bus struck a pole positioned in front of the bus shelter. Several distressed individuals sought refuge in the shop, visibly shaken and crying.
One bystander shared with Expressen that the bus “plowed through an entire queue waiting at the bus stop,” with screams and frantic efforts to aid the injured filling the scene. She added, “It seemed like there were more people trapped under the bus.”
Official Reactions and Public Response
Sweden’s Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, expressed his condolences to the victims and their families. In a message posted on X, he reflected on the tragedy, emphasizing the human impact: “These were people possibly heading home to loved ones or looking forward to a peaceful evening. While the cause remains unknown, my thoughts are with those affected and their families.”
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety near busy urban transit stops. According to recent statistics from the Swedish Transport Agency, pedestrian accidents at bus stops have seen a slight increase over the past two years, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures.
Authorities have pledged to review safety protocols and infrastructure around public transport hubs to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
