Eleven people injured in a car accident in Gastgarten in Velden

A 74-year-old woman from the Villach-Land district was involved in a car accident in Velden, Kärnten, on Saturday afternoon, resulting in 11 injured individuals, two of whom were seriously hurt. According to police reports, the incident was not a targeted act but rather a result of the driver experiencing a moment of visual loss while parking. The collision occurred around 12:40 p.m., with the vehicle traveling at a low speed. The crash took place near the Casino in the heart of the Wörthersee town, where the car struck a well-filled garden area. Initial footage from surveillance cameras suggested that the driver's attempted parking maneuver had gone awry. The woman later told officers she had suffered a sort of blackout during the process and had no recollection of the event afterward. She was found to be under shock following the incident but sustained no physical injuries beyond emotional distress. Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying 20 personnel and four vehicles from the local fire department. Medical teams transported several of the injured to the hospital using a rescue helicopter. The condition of all victims was assessed as non-life-threatening, though some required more extensive medical attention. The scene was cordoned off temporarily to allow for investigation and cleanup efforts. The driver’s account of the incident aligns with initial findings from the police. She described her experience as one of sudden disorientation, which led to the unintended impact. Police confirmed there was no evidence of deliberate intent behind the accident. The woman was taken to a nearby facility for further evaluation and support, given her state of shock. Local authorities have begun reviewing the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the possibility of contributing factors such as fatigue or health conditions. The police are also examining the video footage to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the collision. Further inquiries will focus on whether the driver was operating the vehicle within legal limits and whether any external factors played a role in the incident. Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant and report any unusual occurrences, especially in areas where similar incidents could occur. The community has expressed concern over the safety of public spaces, particularly those frequented by large gatherings. Local officials have pledged to review current safety protocols in light of this incident. The ongoing investigation aims to provide clarity on how such an event can be prevented in the future.