New Findings Emerge from Investigation into M/S Estonia Sinking
Swedish authorities announce new insights into M/S Estonia sinking after a recent investigation.
Key Points
- • Swedish Accident Investigation Authority presents new findings on M/S Estonia sinking.
- • Investigation examines a ten-page document submitted by a journalist regarding prior findings.
- • Two vessels identified near the Estonia at the time of the sinking.
- • Commission investigating alternative theories based on requests from advocacy groups.
On August 20, 2025, the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority revealed significant new findings regarding the notorious sinking of the M/S Estonia, which claimed 852 lives in 1994. In a press conference, the commission, led by Jonas Bäckstrand, outlined their conclusions as part of an extensive final report expected by the end of the year.
Among the notable developments, the commission presented its assessment of a ten-page document submitted by a journalist, which contains clarifications related to an image from the original 1997 investigation report. However, the authorities clarified that they could not confirm the origin of this document. The investigation additionally identified two vessels that were in close proximity to the Estonia at the time of the disaster, which raises questions about their involvement and the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
The ongoing scrutiny is partly a reaction to a 2020 documentary titled "Estonia – the finding that changes everything," which analyzed claims of hull damage and faced criticism for propagating unfounded myths about the sinking. The commission is also revisiting a potentially classified document that details alternative theories surrounding the incident, following requests from groups advocating for these narratives. These theories have persisted in public discourse, and the commission acknowledges the need to clarify these points as part of their broader investigation.
The press conference and forthcoming final report signal a renewed commitment to examining this maritime tragedy, with the aim of providing clearer answers to both the public and the families of those lost. As the investigation progresses, further findings may reshape the understanding of the M/S Estonia disaster and its enduring legacy.