Train collides with a minibus of children in Belgium and 4 people are dead
A tragic train collision in Belgium claims the lives of four, including two children
BUGGENHOUT, Belgium — A devastating incident occurred in Belgium as a train collided with a minibus on Tuesday, resulting in the loss of four lives, including two innocent children, and leaving five other children severely injured. This tragic event has been labeled as one of the most disastrous rail accidents in the nation’s history.
Preliminary reports suggest that the minibus disregarded the closed crossing barrier, leading to the fatal collision. Surveillance footage captured the bus, carrying a total of nine individuals, crossing the railway tracks when the speeding train struck it. The collision took place during the morning rush hour near Buggenhout town, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Brussels, the capital city.
Tragically, the bus driver, an escort, and two children aged 12 and 15 lost their lives in the accident, as confirmed by Lisa De Wilde, spokesperson for the East Flanders public prosecutor’s office. The surviving children are currently receiving medical treatment in critical condition.
The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, stated De Wilde during a media briefing.
Authorities revealed that despite the closed barrier and warning signal, the minibus driver apparently ignored the safety measures. Infrabel, the railway infrastructure manager, confirmed that the crossing was operational at the time of the incident.
The train, traveling at a high speed of approximately 120 kph (75 mph) at the moment of impact, had insufficient time to apply brakes, as stated by Frédéric Sacré, a spokesperson for Infrabel, the Belgian rail operator.
Witnesses described the collision as extremely violent, with the bus overturned and severely damaged, while the train sustained minimal damage.
Although around 100 passengers were onboard the train during the incident, fortunately, no injuries were reported among them. Following the accident, rail services in the vicinity were suspended, and a moment of silence was observed by local officials.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic event in Buggenhout, extending his heartfelt condolences to the affected families.
Amidst the somber atmosphere, children engaged in recreational activities near the accident site, highlighting the resilience of the community in the face of adversity.
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Reporting from Brussels by Cook. Contribution to this report from The Hague, Netherlands by Mike Corder.
