– We are a family in shock and grief, says the deceased’s brother, Tor Espen Simonsen in a joint statement on behalf of the family, to Varden.
The 49-year-old leaves behind many people who were happy for him.
– Ove was a kind, caring and family-loving partner and father. He was always helpful and fixed most things. He always stood up for others, the family says in the statement.
He is described as a fellow who liked to be outside, and who had a twinkle in his eye.
– He had a good sense of humor and always had a funny comment on the line. He was very fond of the outdoors, and dog sledding was his great passion and hobby, he says.
It was during a private party in a commercial area just outside the center of Seljord that the tragedy occurred.
INVESTIGATION: This photo was taken at the police station in Seljord the day after the accident.
Photo: Andreas Soltvedt
Happened in the evening
The police were notified of the accident at 10.34pm on the evening in question.
– The police are carrying out crime scene investigations and investigating the incident to find out what happened. Relatives have now been notified. Those involved have been taken care of, operations manager Eskil Hagen Olsen wrote in the police’s press log after the accident.
A man has been charged with complicity in the fatal accident. The man was driving a mini tractor which is said to have been involved.
– It was the man who is now charged with complicity in the accident who sat on the tractor. What was the reason and how the accident occurred I cannot go into more detail. Several people will be questioned on Sunday, police attorney Bjørn Bunkholt Sæter told Varden the day after the accident.
Varden has tried several times to get an update from the police, without success.
SEALED: The police sealed the door to the party venue pending more investigations.
Photo: Andreas Soltvedt
Crisis team connected
The municipality’s crisis team was called in early after the tragic incident.
– Those who need assistance and help should get it, said Seljord mayor Solveig Sundbø Abrahamsen to Varden after the fatal incident happened.
The mayor was also clear that the incident was upsetting.
– It is a tragic event that has happened. There is no doubt about that. It’s just tragic. Our thoughts and our deepest condolences go out to the relatives and those affected, Solveig Sundbø Abrahamsen told Varden the day after the accident.
The 49-year-old will be buried at Holla church on Tuesday 14 May.
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