Four people were killed on Tuesday May 26, 2026 in the collision between a train and a school bus in Buggenhout, Belgium. Circumstances of the accident, number of victims… Here is what we know about the accident at this stage of the investigation.
Tragic Collision Details
The accident occurred on the morning of May 26 in Buggenhout, a village in Flanders, Belgium. At around 8:08 a.m., a train collided with a school bus carrying seven children. The impact was described as “excessively violent,” leading to severe casualties.
Two of the children, aged 12 and 15, tragically lost their lives, alongside the bus driver and a companion who were accompanying them. The East Flanders public prosecutor’s office confirmed this information, indicating that the remaining five children were transported to the hospital with serious injuries but are now in stable condition.
Level Crossing Incident
The circumstances surrounding the collision are under investigation. According to Frédéric Sacré, a spokesperson for Infrabel, the organization responsible for the Belgian rail network, the bus crossed a level crossing where the barrier was closed, accompanied by a red light signal. “We have technical cameras which show it,” stated Sacré, emphasizing the clear indication that the crossing was not safe at the time.
The train was reportedly traveling at a speed of 90 km/h and was braking as it approached a station located about a kilometer away when the collision occurred. After the impact, the bus was propelled approximately fifteen meters against a metal pylon, which supports essential cables for the level crossing.
Responses and Reactions
This tragic event has drawn significant attention and sympathy from various officials and community members. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “My thoughts are with the affected families.” He described the event as a “terrible accident,” echoing the sentiments of countless others who are mourning the loss of lives.
Interior Minister Bernard Quintin characterized the occurrence as a “tragic accident” and offered condolences to the victims’ families as well as wishing courage to the injured. He also acknowledged the quick action of emergency services at the scene.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The community of Buggenhout is deeply affected by this heartbreaking incident. Local residents, such as Magda, expressed their inability to fathom the pain experienced by the families impacted by this accident. Community support will be critical as affected families navigate their grief.
The investigation is ongoing, with officials collecting evidence and testimonies to understand the chain of events leading to this devastating tragedy. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, shared her heartfelt condolences, stating that “today, Europe mourns with Belgium.” The commitment to transparency and safety at railway crossings must be a priority as investigations continue.
Conclusion
The collision in Buggenhout serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures at level crossings. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will be on ensuring such tragic incidents do not occur in the future. Community members and officials alike hold the victims and their families close in their thoughts during this profoundly difficult time.