The death toll from the multi-vehicle pileup on the Trakia motorway has risen to 13, following the passing of a 42-year-old man from Elhovo at the Deva Maria hospital in Burgas.
Despite extensive surgical intervention, his injuries remained incompatible with life, according to reports from BNT News.
The victim, whose struggle for survival spanned several days, underwent operations lasting over 10 hours as medical teams attempted to stabilize his condition. His death marks a grim milestone in the tragedy that unfolded on November 10, when dense fog triggered a massive chain-reaction collision near the Zimnitsa junction in both directions of the motorway, involving over 80 vehicles and leaving more than 50 people injured, as noted by Boulevard Bulgaria.
Ongoing Medical Treatment for Survivors
As of November 14, 14 individuals remain under hospital care across the country.
The Investigation into Causality
Investigators from the National Investigation Service are currently examining all potential causes for the collisions. Yassen Todorov, an investigator with the service, emphasized that no single theory has been prioritized while the evidence-gathering process continues. “There is no leading version until one is ruled out,” Todorov told reporters, as cited by Dnevnik.
Regarding the driver of the heavy goods vehicle initially detained, Todorov clarified that there is currently insufficient evidence to formally bring charges. The legal process remains in the preparatory phase, with investigators compiling the necessary documentation for comprehensive road-construction and automotive-technical expert reports.
“It may end without an accused, but it may also end with several accused. I do not know of such a case that has happened before,” said Yassen Todorov, investigator at the National Investigation Service.
The investigation is expected to be extensive, involving the interrogation of over 100 witnesses and the preparation of dozens of forensic medical reports. Authorities are currently prioritizing technical examinations to extract data from various electronic recording devices recovered from the scene to determine the exact sequence of the collisions.
While medical personnel continue to manage the recovery of the survivors, the families of the 13 deceased face the immediate task of dealing with the tragedy's aftermath. No timeline has been provided for the conclusion of the technical expert reports, which are essential for determining whether the case will proceed to prosecution.
