Brussels [Belgium], May 26 (ANI): Four people, including two children, were killed after a school minibus was struck by a train at a level crossing in northern Belgium on Tuesday morning, CNN reported, citing local authorities and police.
According to local authorities in Buggenhout, the “serious traffic accident” occurred around 8 a.m. local time when the minibus was hit while crossing railway tracks.
Images from the scene showed the vehicle lying on its side near the tracks following the collision.
Police spokesperson An Berger said it was too early to determine the exact cause of the incident.
“It’s too early to say anything,” Berger said when asked whether human error may have played a role, according to CNN.
Public Prosecution Service spokesperson Lisa De Wilde said the victims included two students, ages 12 and 15, a 27-year-old attendant, and the 49-year-old bus driver.
Five other children sustained serious injuries and remain hospitalized in stable condition, De Wilde added.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the accident, with traffic experts and forensic teams examining the site.
Local officials said the investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the collision.
Authorities also confirmed that the level crossing barriers were closed and the red warning signal was functioning at the time of the accident.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed shock over the tragedy, saying he was “deeply moved by the horrific accident” and extending condolences to the victims’ families.
“Deeply moved by the horrific accident in Buggenhout. My thoughts go out to the affected families,” the Prime Minister wrote in a post on X.
Flemish Education Minister Zuhal Demir also reacted to the incident, calling it “heartbreaking news from Buggenhout” and thanking emergency services for their response.
“What heartbreaking news from Buggenhout. My thoughts are with all the victims, their families, and everyone closely involved. Much strength to everyone affected by this. Thanks to the emergency services for their efforts on site,” Demir wrote on X.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was “heartbroken” to learn of the accident and extended her “deepest condolences” to the families of the victims. (ANI)
About The Author
