Akureyri remembers road crash victims after 12 deaths this year

People in Akureyri joined others across Iceland on Sunday to remember victims of road crashes, as 12 people have died in traffic accidents in the country this year, mbl.is reported. This year’s international day of remembrance focused on young drivers, with signs suggesting risky behaviour among them is increasing.

The remembrance event began at 2pm at the rescue team’s premises at Hjalteyrargata 12. The Coast Guard helicopter TF-Gná was present.

Rev. Sindri Geir Óskarsson of Glerárkirkja church delivered a reflection and led a minute of silence. Emma Agneta Björgvinsdóttir shared her experience of losing her 12-year-old son, Blæng Mikael Bogason, in a road crash in 2013. Representatives of the police and Akureyri town council also spoke.

Attendees were offered coffee and cocoa after the ceremony.