A devastating accident occurred in Buggenhout, northern Belgium, when a school minibus collided with a train, resulting in the deaths of four people. The victims include two children, aged 12 and 15, and two adults. The minibus, which was transporting seven children, a 49-year-old driver, and a 27-year-old chaperone, was en route to a special education facility when the incident took place shortly after 8:00 a.m. local time.

Preliminary investigations and CCTV footage suggest that the level crossing barriers were lowered and warning lights were active at the time of the collision. The minibus reportedly struck the barrier before entering the tracks, where it was struck by a train traveling at approximately 90 km/h. The force of the impact caused the vehicle to collide with a nearby pole before coming to a rest in a residential driveway. While no passengers on the train sustained physical injuries, one individual required treatment for shock.

Five other children who were on the minibus remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Authorities have confirmed that the train driver passed a breathalyzer test, and a post-mortem examination is being conducted on the minibus driver, who reportedly had no prior criminal record. The public prosecutor’s office has launched a formal investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Government officials, including King Philippe and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have expressed their condolences to the families affected by the disaster. Local authorities in Buggenhout have called for a moment of silence to honor the victims as the community grapples with the aftermath of the event.