Palme Murder Investigation Ends Without New Suspect as Engström Cleared

On December 18, 2025, chief prosecutor Lennart Guné held a pivotal press conference regarding the long-unsolved murder of former Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme, clarifying that Stig Engström, previously considered a prime suspect, is no longer under suspicion. Guné emphasized the lack of sufficient evidence to accuse Engström, also known as 'Skandiamannen,' effectively reversing earlier assumptions linking him to the crime.

Guné announced that the investigation into Palme's murder will not be resumed. He explained that despite requests to analyze DNA from Palme's coat, which might have worn by the murderer, the likelihood of obtaining meaningful results is low due to the coat's handling by many people including emergency services. Furthermore, no DNA profiles of living suspects exist for potential comparison.

The prosecutor also highlighted inconsistencies and doubts raised by witness testimonies regarding Engström’s timeline and capability to commit the assassination, noting that these, along with other circumstances, reduce the weight of suspicions against him.

Former head of the Palme investigation, Dag Andersson, expressed surprise at Engström’s identification as a suspect, revealing expectations that the probe would continue focusing on the South Africa lead due to recently surfaced information. Andersson's statement underscores divergent investigative perspectives leading up to this announcement.

Though the decision not to pursue further inquiry disappointed many, Guné acknowledged the public’s feelings while standing by the conclusion that current evidence is insufficient for prosecution or reopening the case. With Engström cleared and no new suspects identified, this marks a significant moment in the decades-old case that has captivated Sweden and the world.

The Palme murder investigation’s closure without a definitive resolution leaves the tragic assassination of Olof Palme unresolved but confirms the authorities’ current stance on available evidence and suspect credibility.