Two critically injured in head-on collision in Telemark tunnel

A serious traffic accident in Vinje, Telemark, has left two people critically injured after a head-on collision between a car and a truck in Vågslitunnelen on the E134 highway, police report.

The crash occurred Friday afternoon near the border of the Sør-Øst and Vest police districts, prompting emergency response teams from both regions, according to a statement. By 3:25 PM, firefighters were on site and two air ambulances had been dispatched.

Operations leader Espen Reite confirmed that one person had been extricated from the car, with both occupants suffering critical injuries. The tunnel remains closed, with authorities warning of extended delays.

Motorist Børge Josefsen, who arrived as the tunnel was shut, described a complete standstill. “There’s a mile-long queue. I’ve been stuck for an hour,” he told Dagbladet. Emergency crews and a growing backup of vehicles were visible at the scene.

Statens vegvesen’s accident investigation team has been notified and is en route.