Fatal collision in Belgium prompts inquiry into railway safety protocols
Rail infrastructure agency Infrabel confirms barriers were closed and lights were red at time of crash, as authorities launch investigation into why vehicle proceeded past safety signals.
A fatal collision between a commuter train and a school minibus in northern Belgium has resulted in four deaths and five injuries, prompting an immediate investigation into the failure of safety protocols at a railway crossing. The incident occurred in Buggenhout, a municipality in the Flanders region approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Brussels, on Tuesday morning.
Authorities have described the event as a horrific accident. The minibus was transporting seven pupils from a school for children with learning disabilities. The victims were identified as two children, aged 12 and 15, the 49-year-old driver, and a 27-year-old supervisor. Five other children sustained severe injuries but are in stable condition with no life-threatening injuries.
Belgian rail infrastructure agency Infrabel confirmed that safety measures were active at the time of the crash. Footage from the scene indicated that the crossing barriers were closed and a red light was illuminated when the train, travelling at 120 kilometres per hour, struck the vehicle. Infrabel spokesman Frederic Sacre described the impact as extremely violent, noting the minibus was thrown approximately 15 metres into a metal pylon.
The specific cause of the collision remains under investigation by the public prosecutor’s office. It is not yet confirmed why the minibus proceeded past the closed barriers and active warning signals. Forensic teams and emergency workers were present at the scene, where the vehicle was found lying on its side, while the commuter train remained halted on the tracks.
The disaster has drawn condolences from senior political figures, including Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also issued a statement of sympathy. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin thanked emergency services for their response, while officials expressed deep sadness over the loss of life and the trauma inflicted on the victims' families.
