Tram Derailment in Gothenburg Leaves Several Injured
A tram derailment in Gothenburg injures several, leading to an investigation.
Key Points
- • Tram crashed into a kebab shop in Gothenburg on June 21, 2025, injuring several.
- • Three individuals are hospitalized with serious injuries, including the tram driver.
- • The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority is assessing the site but no formal investigation is required due to no fatalities.
- • Witness accounts highlight the tram's high speed prior to the crash.
In the early hours of June 21, 2025, a tram derailed and crashed into a kebab shop in central Gothenburg, resulting in multiple injuries. The incident occurred at approximately 00:49 at the intersection of Vasagatan and Avenyn, shortly before Midsummer festivities commenced. Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, treating the injured and securing the area, which had to be cordoned off due to the severity of the crash.
Initial reports indicated that eight individuals were taken to the hospital, with three, including the tram's driver, sustaining serious but stable injuries, according to Sahlgrenska University Hospital. A witness to the accident, Emil Österberg, described the tram's high speed prior to the crash, stating, "I have never seen anything like it; the tram just went straight through without braking."
Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, classifying it as gross negligence in traffic and serious bodily harm. The retrieval of surveillance footage from nearby cameras may provide critical insights into the events leading up to the crash. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (Statens haverikommission) noted that a formal investigation is not mandated as there were no fatalities.
Mikael Hillbo, an investigator with the authority, emphasized the importance of gathering facts, stating, "This is a serious incident, and we are going to Gothenburg to gather the necessary facts to make a good decision." The team is expected to conduct an initial assessment at the crash site, examining the tram and interviewing involved parties to better understand the potential hazards in Gothenburg's tram operations.
In the aftermath, tram services were temporarily suspended but resumed operations by 12:30 the same day, albeit with ongoing monitoring of safety protocols. The investigation aims to ensure the safety and reliability of the tram network in Gothenburg.
With two individuals still under care for severe injuries, the situation remains a focal point of concern as authorities work to piece together what led to this alarming incident.