Working Conditions Aboard the Tellus

In the early hours of February 14, 2016, at approximately 2 a.m., the crew aboard the tanker 'Tellus' on its route to Södertälje encountered a devastating event. As the vessel awaited the opening of the Södertälje canal bridge, the crew observed a vehicle tumble off the bridge, which they initially mistook for large chunks of snow. The tanker crew quickly alerted the Maritime Administration after witnessing the alarming fall. Despite the gravity of the situation, the 'Tellus' was permitted to pass and ultimately crossed over the wreckage of the car. Two days later, on February 16, it was announced that the Swedish Accident Investigation Board would be conducting a thorough inquiry into the incident. The vehicle, carrying the members of the British band Viola Beach, had just finished a performance in Norrköping. Due to undetermined reasons, the driver failed to heed the warning signals, including flashing lights and raised booms, leading the car to plunge 25 meters into the waters of the Södertälje Canal after colliding with part of the bridge. Tragically, all five occupants of the vehicle perished on impact. For more detailed coverage and video footage, visit the report linked here: http://www.aftonbladet.se/nyheter/article22275164.ab.