Several people were killed and others injured on Friday afternoon when a double-decker city bus crashed into a bus stop on Valhallavägen in central Stockholm, according to Swedish police.

The incident occurred at approximately 15:23 local time near the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). Emergency services said victims were found both at the scene and underneath the bus, which had struck a pole and come to a stop against the shelter structure.

Police spokesperson Nadya Norton said the bus driver had been arrested. A preliminary manslaughter investigation has been opened, which authorities described as standard procedure in fatal traffic incidents. Police said the driver is currently being questioned and that investigators are examining whether a medical, mechanical, or operational issue may have contributed.

Authorities stated that the bus did not appear to be carrying passengers at the time of the crash. Officials have not yet released information on the number, age, or gender of those killed or injured.

Stockholm emergency services deployed multiple fire units, ambulances, and rescue teams. Local media images showed firefighters working to lift the front section of the bus while paramedics treated victims on the pavement. A crisis support center has been set up for witnesses and affected families.

Witnesses reported scenes of panic as the bus struck a queue of people waiting at the stop. One woman told Expressen that the vehicle “mowed down the entire bus stop queue,” adding that bystanders attempted to rescue those trapped while others screamed for help.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said his thoughts were with the victims and their families, noting that many may have been on their way home from work or school. “We do not yet know the cause,” he wrote on X. “Right now, my thoughts are primarily with those affected and their loved ones.”

Police cordoned off the area between Odengatan and Engelbrektsgatan as forensic teams began examining the scene. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area while investigations continue.

Further updates are expected as officials release verified casualty figures and additional details about the circumstances surrounding the crash. (ILKHA)