A tragic collision between a high-speed train and a school bus in northern Belgium has left four people dead, including two children, and five other children injured, according to Belgian officials on Tuesday.
Details of the Accident
The incident occurred during the morning rush hour at a level crossing near Buggenhout, approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of Brussels. The bus was carrying schoolchildren when it was struck by a train traveling at an estimated 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour).
Spokeswoman Lisa De Wilde confirmed at a news conference that the deceased include the minibus driver, an escort, and two children. The five injured children were taken to the hospital in serious condition.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the accident has not yet been determined. Investigators are interviewing witnesses and reviewing footage from nearby cameras. De Wilde stated, "What we do know is that the barrier was closed and the red light was on."
A spokesperson for Belgian rail operator Infrabel, Frédéric Sacré, told RTBF public broadcaster that the train had "no time to brake" before impact, describing the collision as "extremely violent."
Scene Description
An Associated Press reporter at the scene noted that the badly damaged bus was lying on its side. Forensic experts in protective white suits and gloves were photographing the scene, and a white pop-up tent had been erected nearby. The train remained relatively unscathed.
Official Reactions
Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Quintin expressed "great sadness" in a social media post, saying, "My thoughts go out to the victims and their loved ones." The community is mourning the loss of lives, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash.
