Teenager killed in traffic accident near school identified

The 17-year-old student who died after being struck by a van near KVS Lyngdal school in southern Norway on Friday has been named as Julian Løvsland Olstad, police confirmed on Monday.

Police released the name in consultation with the family, Dagbladet reports. The driver, a man in his 40s, has been charged with negligent homicide but denies criminal liability, according to police prosecutor Ingrid Margrethe Tjaum. “The accused acknowledges being involved in the incident but does not admit guilt as charged and has provided an explanation for his position,” Tjaum stated.

The accident occurred on a 60 km/h road without sidewalks or street lighting. Olstad was walking with a classmate on the right side of the road when he was hit from behind by a delivery van. He died shortly after the collision.

School headmaster Ole Fladstad confirmed on Saturday that one of their students had been killed. “This deeply affects us all,” Fladstad said. “The proximity of the accident site to the school makes it especially painful for students and staff.” A memorial gathering was held Saturday morning, with students and faculty walking to the accident site to light candles and lay flowers.

Lyngdal mayor Unni Nilsen Husøy described the tragedy as a blow to the entire community. “There is no doubt this tragic accident impacts the whole municipality. Words fall short in situations like this,” she said.

The school has implemented support measures for students and staff, with the municipal crisis team assisting in the aftermath.