The trial over the fatal construction elevator accident in Sundbyberg began today at Attunda District Court. Five construction workers died on December 11, 2023, when the elevator plummeted 30 meters due to four missing load-bearing screws. Two fitters and the company CEO are charged with gross work environment violations and causing death.
On December 11, 2023, five construction workers lost their lives in Sundbyberg, northwest of Stockholm, when a construction elevator fell 30 meters. Among the dead were welder Bashir, 25, from Afghanistan, Anton Runsvik, 26, from Sundsvall, as well as one Russian and two Ukrainians. Two other workers survived by a hair's breadth.
More than two and a half years later, the trial began at Attunda District Court in Sollentuna. Two fitters and the company CEO are charged with gross work environment crimes, five counts of causing another's death, and endangering others. All deny the charges.
Prosecutor Lars Ågren describes the elevator as a "death trap" and claims four load-bearing screws were missing, with no self-inspection or documentation. "They have been negligent, that is, sloppy," he says, seeking a corporate fine of seven million kronor and prison sentences. The accused previously suggested sabotage, but Ågren dismisses it.
Relatives including Elisabet Rundqvist, speaking for Bashir's family, attended. "We want the cards on the table. We really want to know how it happened," she says. Defense lawyer Johan Eriksson, representing the CEO, calls the event "awful" and highlights the staff's experience. The accused are scheduled to testify on Friday.
