Belgian school minibus ignores barriers: train collision kills four, including two children
A train collision with a school minibus in Belgium has killed four people, including two children aged 12 and 15, after the vehicle drove through closed barriers at a level crossing in Buggenhout, north of Brussels, during Tuesday morning’s rush hour. Belgian rail operator Infrabel called the crash "one of the deadliest accidents ever at a Belgian level crossing," as reported by *NRC* .
The minibus, carrying nine people—students from a special education school—ignored red signals and lowered crossing barriers before the train struck it, officials confirmed. Five children remain hospitalized in serious condition, according to multiple sources, including *The New York Times* and *The Independent* . Witnesses described hearing a "huge bang and screeching sound" at the moment of impact.
The accident occurred at approximately 8:15 AM local time, disrupting rail traffic on the Brussels-Antwerp line. Investigators are examining whether mechanical failure, human error, or a combination of factors caused the minibus to cross despite the warnings. Infrabel has pledged a full review of safety protocols at the Buggenhout crossing, which has no history of prior fatal incidents but has been flagged in past audits for limited visibility during peak hours.
This marks the second fatal collision involving a Belgian school transport vehicle in five years, following a 2021 incident in Ghent where a bus overturned, injuring 12 students. Belgian Transport Minister Georges Gilkinet has ordered an immediate inspection of all 1,700 level crossings nationwide, prioritizing those near schools. A preliminary report from the Belgian Safety Board is expected within 48 hours.
Belgian school minibus ignores barriers: train collision kills four, including two children
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