High-Speed Train Collision With Minibus Kills Four in Belgium

A tragic railway accident in Belgium has claimed the lives of four people, including two children, after a high-speed train collided with a minibus near the town of Buggenhout.

Authorities said the minibus, which was carrying special needs children, crossed the railway despite warning signals and closed barriers during Tuesday morning’s rush hour. The train, travelling at about 120 kilometres per hour, struck the vehicle with what officials described as a “very violent impact.”

The victims included the 49-year-old driver, a 27-year-old escort, and two children aged 12 and 15. Five other children suffered serious injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Belgian prosecutors said early investigations indicate the crossing barriers were already down and warning lights active when the vehicle attempted to cross the tracks.

Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed shock over the incident, while Ursula von der Leyen offered condolences to the victims’ families.

Officials confirmed that about 100 passengers were on board the train, but none of them were injured. Rail services around the area were temporarily suspended as emergency crews and investigators examined the crash site.

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