Slovenian President breaks collarbone in car crash; police suspect driver negligence

Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar suffered a broken collarbone in a traffic accident that occurred in the Kastelec tunnel. Police have identified a 52-year-old police officer, who was driving the presidential vehicle, as the primary suspect in causing the collision due to suspected negligence.

According to initial investigations by the Koper Police Department, the accident involved only two vehicles: a police escort car and the presidential car. The 52-year-old driver of the Mercedes-Benz V300, carrying the president, allegedly failed to maintain a safe distance and rear-ended an Audi driven by a 34-year-old escort officer. Both women traveling in the presidential vehicle sustained injuries.

President Pirc Musar received treatment for her broken collarbone and has returned home to continue her vacation. However, her companion, who was in the rear seat, suffered more severe injuries and remains hospitalized in Izola. The case has been reported to the Special Department of the State Prosecutor's Office, which handles criminal offenses by officials with special powers.

Investigators have reportedly obtained surveillance footage from the tunnel. Both police officers driving the vehicles underwent alcohol and drug tests, which yielded negative results. The incident has raised questions about oversight of police officers temporarily assigned to the President's Office. Police stated that the public was informed only after the information was verified and its release would not impede the investigation.