A tragic accident in Buggenhout has left four people dead after a train collided with a school minibus at a railway crossing. The victims included two schoolchildren and two adults, according to local authorities.
The deadly crash happened on Tuesday morning as the minibus was crossing the railway tracks in the quiet Belgian town. Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after the collision was reported, but sadly, four people were pronounced dead.
Police said the victims included the driver of the school minibus, another adult passenger, and two children who were traveling to school. Several other people were reportedly injured and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities immediately closed the railway line and nearby roads as rescue teams worked at the scene. Investigators have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident. Officials are looking into whether the crossing barriers and warning signals were functioning properly at the time of the crash.
Witnesses described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking. Residents in the area said they heard a loud impact before emergency sirens filled the streets. Many people gathered near the scene as police secured the area.
Belgian leaders and local officials expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. Schools in the area also offered counseling services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Rail transport authorities said train services in the area would remain disrupted as investigations continue and the damaged crossing is repaired.
The accident has once again raised concerns about safety at railway crossings and the need for stronger measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Police have urged members of the public to avoid spreading unconfirmed information as authorities continue gathering details about the deadly collision.