Minibus crashes into train in Belgium, killing four people instantly

Nine people, including two children, have been killed after a minibus carrying special needs children collided with a high-speed train at a closed railway crossing near Buggenhout, Belgium. The incident occurred during morning rush hour on Tuesday.

According to authorities, the minibus, which carried nine passengers, drove through the closed barriers despite the red light being displayed. The train, estimated to be traveling at 120 kph (75 mph), had no time to brake before impact.

The victims include the bus driver, aged 49, and an escort, aged 27, as well as two children aged 12 and 15. Five other children were injured and hospitalized in serious condition. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Federal Police spokesperson An Berger stated that the minibus appeared to have driven through the barrier before being struck by the oncoming train. Belgian rail operator Infra-Bel’s spokesperson, Frederic Sacre, described the impact as “extremely violent”.

Prime Minister Bart De Wever and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have expressed condolences for the victims’ families. The incident has prompted a halt in rail traffic in the area.

Source: Al Jazeera