A tragic bus accident occurred on the E10 Lofast road near Åsvatnet, Hadsel, on December 2, involving over 50 passengers. The incident unfolded just after 2:00 PM when authorities were alerted to the scene. Eyewitness reports indicate the bus, operated by Boreal, lost control on a left turn and crashed through the guardrail, leading to the vehicle's front being submerged under water.
By 3:09 PM, local police confirmed multiple fatalities, with reports later indicating three confirmed deaths and at least four others suffering serious injuries. Emergency services worked swiftly to rescue the 58 individuals on board, who came from eight different nations. Fortunately, all passengers were eventually removed from the bus.
The scene saw significant emergency response efforts, with rescue helicopters, including the SAR Queen from Bodø and another from Tromsø, deployed to transport the most critically injured individuals to Stokmarknes Hospital. Weather conditions posed challenges to the rescue operations, with strong winds and precipitation complicate the deployment of emergency apparatus.
By 4:30 PM, more than 18 members of the Civil Defense and rescue divers had arrived on site, collaborating with the Svolvær Alpine Rescue Group to assist with the recovery operations. The seriousness of the situation drew attention from various local and national authorities. Vidar Thom Benjaminsen, the mayor of Vågan municipality, announced the establishment of crisis management teams and support centers to assist victims and families affected by the tragedy.
“We have set up crisis teams at the town hall, and our crisis team is now gathered at Thon Hotel Svolvær,” stated Mayor Benjaminsen. This hotel was designated to facilitate families seeking comfort and information during this trying time.
The situation evolved rapidly, and by around 3:30 PM, the Nordland Hospital had enacted emergency procedures, alerted to prepare extra resources as the local health services anticipated heavy casualties. The hospital's preparedness includes the potential onboarding of additional ambulance services from surrounding areas, ensuring every individual receives the necessary assistance.
“It is too early to determine the full extent of the tragedy,” remarked Jonas Gahr Støre, the Prime Minister of Norway. “The local police and health services will inform us as the situation develops. I thank the police, rescue personnel, and volunteers for their courageous efforts to save lives amid such challenging conditions.”
Traffic congestion was evident near the accident site; authorities halted traffic at Raftsundbrua, demanding vehicles turn around. The ferry service between Fiskebøl and Melbu was temporarily suspended to allow for the swift movement of emergency vehicles to the crash site.
Witnesses to the accident and emergency responders alike have expressed their shock and sorrow at the events of the afternoon. “The bus was moving at moderate speed, and it suddenly veered off the road. It was terrifying,” reported Jan Eivind Fredly from Lofotposten, who was at the location. His account highlighted how the bus careened through the guardrails, leading to the serious situation.
The town of Hadsel now faces the task of recovering from this tragedy. A family assistance center has been established at Thon Hotel Svolvær where relatives of the injured and deceased can gather to receive updates and support.
Meanwhile, local and national agencies continue working together to assess the situation and provide necessary aid to those impacted. The community has rallied, demonstrating solidarity and support as they navigate the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
This grievous bus accident on the E10 Lofast not only marks a significant tragedy for those involved but also serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of such incidents. The focus now remains on supporting the victims and healing the community as they cope with the repercussions of this devastating moment.
