Ambulance Nurse Killed in Harmånger, Sweden, Suspect Detained

Fatal Attack During Emergency Call

A female ambulance nurse, aged in her 40s, was tragically killed in Harmånger, Nordanstig municipality, Sweden, on Saturday, September 20, 2025. The incident occurred during what was initially classified as a 'prio 3', or low-priority, emergency call. An ambulance was dispatched at approximately 11:14 AM, and less than half an hour later, at 11:40 AM, a second alert was issued to SOS Alarm. The nurse was reportedly assaulted with a sharp object, sustaining injuries that proved fatal despite being transported to Hudiksvall Hospital. Another ambulance staff member present during the attack was physically unharmed but is receiving crisis support.

Suspect Detained Amidst Prior Concerns

A 25-year-old man has been detained on suspicion of murder in connection with the attack. He was found at a nearby residence and taken into custody following a significant police response. The suspect, who lives in the same house where the attack took place, was questioned on Sunday. Authorities revealed that the man had a prior conviction for assault and threatening with a knife. Disturbingly, just days before the fatal incident, the same suspect allegedly threatened ambulance staff with a baseball bat at the address, leading to his transfer to psychiatry by the police. The emergency call preceding Saturday's fatal attack did not indicate any immediate threat, according to operational manager Liselott Sjöqvist of the ambulance service at Hudiksvall Hospital.

Community Shock and Calls for Enhanced Safety

The small community of Harmånger, typically described as calm and safe, has been left in profound shock by the event. Neighbors reported hearing screams and witnessing an ambulance worker receiving CPR. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed his deep sympathy, stating, 'We don't know all the details of the incident, but regardless of the background, it's absolutely terrible.' In response to the tragedy, Region Gävleborg has entered emergency mode, providing crisis support to affected staff and reviewing existing routines. The incident has also been reported to the Work Environment Authority. The Ambulance Union has renewed calls for improved safety measures and better information sharing between emergency services, with discussions underway regarding the possibility of 'flagging' addresses known for potential threats and violence. Minister of Health Elisabet Lann (KD) is expected to visit the region soon to address the concerns.