Work environment probe after ambulance murder in Härmänge
Following the tragic murder of a 29-year-old ambulance nurse in Härmänge, the Work Environment Authority is now investigating the employer. The incident occurred during a call-out and has sparked strong reactions regarding the safety of healthcare workers. The union demands immediate improvements in the work environment.
On August 15, 2023, a 29-year-old female ambulance nurse was murdered in Härmänge, a small locality in Västernorrland County. The victim worked for Region Västernorrland and was on a call-out when the suspect, a 25-year-old man who knew the victim, attacked her with a knife. The man has confessed and been charged with murder.
The Work Environment Authority has now initiated a preliminary investigation against the region to review the work environment in ambulance operations. According to the authority, the probe will focus on any deficiencies in risk assessments and safety routines for staff. 'We take this very seriously and want to ensure that ambulance personnel's work environment is safe,' says a spokesperson for the Work Environment Authority in a statement.
The union Kommunal, representing the nurse, has expressed shock and demands for action. 'This is an incredibly tragic event that must never happen again. We demand a thorough review of how we protect our staff in the field,' states union chair Tobias Baudin. Region Västernorrland has cooperated with police and authorities since the incident and is offering support to affected colleagues.
The background to the murder involves personal relations between the victim and the perpetrator, who according to police suffered from mental health issues. The event has highlighted broader issues of violence against emergency services personnel in Sweden, where similar incidents have been reported before. The investigation is expected to lead to recommendations for better protection, but exact conclusions are not yet known.
This tragedy has sparked debate about resources in healthcare and the need for enhanced safety during call-outs.