Four employees at Akademiska Hospital in Uppsala, Sweden, fell ill with similar symptoms over a nine-day period last autumn. A police investigation followed, leading to the arrest of a female colleague suspected of involvement. She was initially detained, then released a week later.
Investigation Closed
Now, prosecutor Emma Häggström has closed the investigation. The first illness occurred on October 25th when a nurse became sick during a shift. Symptoms included “warm flushes,” shaking, high blood pressure, and an abnormally high heart rate.
Three additional employees on the same ward experienced similar symptoms within nine days. According to prosecutor Häggström, investigators believe a substance was added to the individuals’ drinks, leading to their poisoning, involving a commonly available hospital medication.
A significant number of interviews, forensic examinations, and expert consultations were conducted during the investigation. However, Häggström stated, “I have gathered all the evidence and concluded that I have no more evidence than at the time of the arrest. It is not possible to prove that the suspect committed the crime.”
Reports submitted to the Swedish Function Environment Authority, as reviewed by SVT, indicate that the affected employees had critically low potassium levels in their blood.
Hospital Response
Akademiska Hospital’s security chief, Viktor Ekström, stated the hospital learned of the investigation’s closure upon receiving the prosecutor’s press release. “We had hoped for a different outcome, but one must respect the fact that both the prosecutor and the police have investigated the case,” he said.
The previously suspected woman was dismissed from Akademiska Hospital in February. Ekström declined to comment on whether the dismissal was appropriate, stating the hospital does not comment on individual personnel matters. He did state that any dismissal of an employee must have a factual basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the first case of illness occur?
The first case occurred on October 25th when a nurse became ill during a shift.
What symptoms did the affected employees experience?
Symptoms included “warm flushes,” shaking, high blood pressure, and an abnormally high heart rate.
What was the prosecutor’s reason for closing the investigation?
Prosecutor Emma Häggström stated that there was not enough evidence to prove the suspect committed the crime.
What are the implications of this outcome for the affected hospital staff and the broader investigation into workplace safety?
