Fatal Head-On Collision on E20 Near Götene Claims One Life, Causes Major Traffic Disruptions

A tragic head-on collision occurred on the E20 highway north of Götene on December 22, 2025, resulting in the death of a 25-year-old man and severe injuries to others involved. The accident happened around 3 PM near the Brännebrona area when a van collided with a truck. According to Johan Håkansson, a police spokesperson for the Väst region, it was a serious accident caused by a violent collision that is currently being investigated for reckless driving.

The van driver, who was trapped in the wreckage after the collision, suffered fatal injuries, while the truck driver was conscious and able to communicate following the crash. Both vehicles were seized by the police for technical examination to determine the facts behind the accident. Authorities have emphasized the severity of the incident and are continuing their investigation to establish all circumstances.

The collision led to a full closure of the E20 at the scene, causing significant traffic disruption and long queues. Traffic was redirected through alternative routes via Skara, Skövde, and Mariestad, which also experienced delays due to increased volume. Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration, forecasted that the E20 might reopen by Tuesday morning, with sources citing times ranging from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

Emergency services responded promptly, with one seriously injured person initially trapped being rescued. The police have described the accident as having a "very large impact" on traffic flow in the region.

Investigators are treating the incident as potentially involving reckless driving as the cause, but a full technical examination of the vehicles is underway to confirm details. The police continue their inquiry to clarify the precise chain of events that led to this fatal and disruptive crash.