New DNA and AI Techniques Revive Investigation into Olof Palme’s 40-Year-Old Murder Case

On the 40th anniversary of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme’s assassination, renewed efforts using cutting-edge DNA technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are bringing fresh perspectives to this decades-old mystery.

Marie Allen, a leading Swedish DNA expert, has expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to examine Palme’s recently returned coat, noting that witnesses reported the assailant touched Palme’s shoulder. This could provide critical forensic evidence potentially unlocking new leads in the case.

Simultaneously, a documentary titled "Palmemordets dolda spår" has showcased how AI is being utilized to analyze publicly available police investigation materials. The AI program sifted through redacted documents and identified intriguing connections, particularly pointing to a small group of elite Swedish soldiers with access to weapons. These findings suggest possible military involvement.

Among the suspects is one referred to as Löjtnant X, who was part of a secret military exercise on Gotland in the week leading to Palme’s murder. The exercise concluded on the very day of the assassination, after which Löjtnant X and fellow paratroopers were transported to Stockholm. Conflicting alibis and missing military flight logs for that night have raised questions, as crucial documentation is absent from the War Archives. Journalist Gunnar Wall highlighted this troubling gap, suggesting records might have been deliberately removed.

Despite investigations by the Palme group alongside the Security Police and military security, Löjtnant X consistently denied involvement and claimed an alibi. He emigrated in the 1990s and has since passed away. An associate of Löjtnant X revealed the suspect once displayed a weapon identical to the Magnum used in Palme’s murder.

Reflecting on the case, former Prime Minister Ingvar Carlsson underscored the intense hatred directed at Palme as a central motive. Interviews with prominent Social Democrats also recall the tragic day, illustrating the lasting emotional impact.

These technological advances—applying DNA analysis with AI-driven document scrutiny—offer renewed hope for solving a case that has puzzled Sweden for four decades. Continued research and examination of newly accessible evidence may finally bring clarity to the enduring Palme murder mystery.