A harrowing video has emerged showing the precise moment a woman was violently thrown 20 feet from a rollercoaster in Sweden, an incident that resulted in one fatality and left several others injured.
The tragic event unfolded on 25 June 2023 at the popular Gröna Lund theme park in Stockholm. The Jetline rollercoaster was carrying fourteen passengers when a critical failure occurred: a support arm beneath one of the cars fractured, causing the train to jolt to an abrupt stop and partially derail.
The Moment of Terror
Karin Elmegard, who was seated in the last car beside her husband, Mikael Elmegard, was catapulted from the ride. In a desperate act of self-preservation, Mikael managed to prevent his own fall by clutching onto a structural beam.
The chilling footage captures the panic that ensued. Park visitors are seen looking up in sheer horror and scrambling to clear the area as the rollercoaster's framework shook violently. Seconds later, the video records the devastating sight of Mrs Elmegard plummeting to the ground.
A woman in her thirties tragically lost her life in the accident. Nine other individuals, including Karin Elmegard, sustained injuries.
Court Proceedings and Lasting Impact
The legal reckoning for this disaster began on 10 November, as the trial against Gröna Lund and two other implicated companies commenced. During the court proceedings, CCTV footage documenting Mrs Elmegard's fall was replayed.
Speaking to local media, Mikael Elmegard recounted the trauma. 'It was horrifying to see my wife fall out of the car, especially from such a height,' he said. 'When I saw her lying on the ground, her face covered in blood, I didn’t know if she had survived. It was a terrible impact.'
Mrs Elmegard recalled the terrifying moments leading to her six-metre fall, stating she first became panicked after spotting an object falling from one of the cars. 'I remember falling towards the grass, with it rushing up at me at a terrifying speed,' she told reporters. 'I don’t think I would have survived if I had fallen onto something harder, like the tracks.'
Following the accident, Karin Elmegard endured a 'physically painful and mentally exhausting' hospital stay and underwent surgery. Despite her injuries being treated, she reports she still faces significant challenges with simple, everyday tasks.
The Fight for Accountability
Prosecutors are pursuing a total corporate fine of 18 million SEK (approximately £1.45 million) from Gröna Lund. They allege the amusement park failed to meet essential safety standards for its ride components.
All three companies involved have denied any wrongdoing. Gröna Lund has, so far, refused to pay compensation to the victims.
Mr Elmegard added, 'We’re glad this trial is finally underway so we can settle the question of responsibility once and for all. We feel it’s important that someone is held accountable. This should never be allowed to happen.'
