Seven Youths Seriously Injured in Fristad Garage Fire, Community and Authorities Respond

A tragic fire broke out on Friday evening in a garage in Fristad, Borås municipality, seriously injuring seven youths aged 13 to 14. The incident occurred just before 7 PM when the children were working in the garage on vehicles, and a small amount of leaked gasoline ignited, causing the fire. Local residents rushed to help; one neighbor used a fire extinguisher to control the flames, enabling part-time firefighters to arrive and assist before the fire was fully extinguished.

All seven youths suffered serious injuries and were hospitalized — four are being treated at Södra Älvsborg Hospital in Borås, with their condition described as serious but stable. Two children with minor injuries were transported to Drottning Silvias Children’s Hospital in Gothenburg, and one critically injured child was airlifted to a specialized burn center in Linköping. In addition, two others were admitted to the hospital with smoke inhalation.

The cause of the fire is under police investigation for general dangerous carelessness, although no suspects have been identified. Officials noted that the fire likely spread rapidly due to the flammable liquid, complicating escape efforts for those inside the confined garage space.

The local community has been deeply affected by the event, with residents describing chaotic scenes of panic and efforts to rescue trapped youths. Anna Karlander, a neighbor, recounted the horror of hearing screams and witnessing people trying to assist the victims.

In response to the incident, the Borås municipality has established a crisis center at Kyrkans hus to provide support to affected individuals and their families. The crisis management team is actively coordinating assistance in the lead-up to the autumn school break. Anna Wikman, principal in Fristad, described the event as "terrible and tragic," emphasizing the trauma inflicted on the victims and their friends. Firefighters involved in the rescue are also receiving counseling to cope with the emotional impact.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to clarify the exact circumstances of the fire. Meanwhile, the community continues to come together to support the injured youths and their families during this difficult time.