A serious bus accident in northern Norway has left three people dead and four injured, with passengers from Malaysia, Singapore, and several other countries on board. The incident occurred yesterday around 1:30 PM local time in the municipality of Hadsel when the bus veered off the E10 highway and ended up partially submerged in Åsvatnet.
Bent Are Eilertsen, Chief of Staff at the Northland Police District, confirmed to NRK, “The bus lies partially submerged, and we currently report three deceased and four seriously injured.” The bus was carrying 58 passengers from eight nationalities, complicating identification and support efforts for the victims’ families. According to police sources relayed by TV 2 Norway, the nationalities include Norway, Singapore, India, Malaysia, the Netherlands, South Sudan, and France.
Boreal, the bus company, confirmed the involvement of a public transport bus in the incident.
Local authorities declared a state of emergency and activated crisis response teams in the region. Adverse weather conditions hampered rescue efforts, affecting helicopter access to the accident site.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed his condolences, stating, “This afternoon, we stand together with those affected by the serious bus accident in Hadsel. My thoughts are with everyone involved and affected.” He acknowledged the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the confirmed fatalities and serious injuries.
Local officials have established a reception center at a nearby hotel for those impacted by the accident, and Melbu Church has opened its doors for anyone seeking comfort during this difficult time.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is underway, and authorities urge anyone who was on the bus to contact the police to confirm their safety and assist with the rescue efforts.
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Source: NRK
