On April 30, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Copenhagen, Denmark, when an older man lost control of his Volkswagen ID.3 and drove into a crowd of people near the bustling Königin-Luise-Brücke (Queen Louise Bridge). The accident, which occurred around 15:32 local time, left at least eleven people injured, with two victims reported to be in critical condition.
The accident took place on Sortedam Dossering street, a popular area frequented by cyclists and pedestrians alike. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as the driver first crashed into a construction site before veering onto the sidewalk, where he struck a cyclist and several pedestrians gathered in front of a café.
One witness recounted the terrifying moment, stating, "The car suddenly turned and crashed into the tables and chairs outside the café. The benches flew through the air, and people screamed." Another bystander expressed their shock, saying, "I thought it was a terrorist attack. What else can you think when a car comes speeding by like that?"
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, deploying at least seven ambulances and multiple fire trucks. The area was cordoned off as police began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. According to the police, the driver was also injured but not in life-threatening condition, and he has yet to be questioned about the incident.
Authorities have classified the event as a traffic accident, with no indications of intent to harm. However, the investigation is ongoing as officials seek to determine why the driver lost control of his vehicle. The police chief of Copenhagen, Jesper Frandsen, confirmed that the initial findings suggest it was an accident without malicious intent.
The Königin-Luise-Brücke is a vital thoroughfare in Copenhagen, connecting the city center to the northern district of Nørrebro. It is a heavily trafficked route, with over 1.2 million cyclists having crossed it in 2025 alone. The bridge is surrounded by lakes and parks, making it a popular recreational spot for both locals and tourists.
Despite the chaos of the accident, traffic on the bridge continued to flow after the incident, although the accident site itself remained closed off for investigations. The presence of emergency vehicles and the red car involved in the crash was a stark reminder of the day's tragic events.
As the community comes to grips with the aftermath of this shocking incident, many are left questioning how such a tragedy could occur in a place known for its safety and vibrant outdoor culture. The police have urged anyone with additional information or footage of the incident to come forward as they continue their inquiries.
This unfortunate event highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring safety in urban environments, where the interactions between vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians can sometimes lead to catastrophic outcomes. The city of Copenhagen, known for its commitment to cycling and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, may need to reassess safety measures in high-traffic areas to prevent future incidents.
In the wake of the accident, local officials have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the need for community support during this difficult time. As investigations proceed, the focus will remain on understanding the factors that led to this tragic event and how to enhance safety for all who use Copenhagen's streets and bridges.
As more details emerge, the city and its residents are left to reflect on the fragility of safety in busy public spaces and the importance of vigilance for all road users.
