A tragic collision in Buggenhout, Belgium, claimed the lives of four people, including two children, when a train struck a school minibus on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The minibus was carrying seven children and two adults when it was hit at a level crossing despite the barriers being down and a red light activated. Five other children sustained critical injuries.
The Tragic Collision
A train collided with a school minibus in Buggenhout, Belgium, on Tuesday (May 26, 2026), killing four people, including two children and two adults. The minibus was carrying seven children, a driver, and a supervisor from a school for children with learning disabilities when the accident occurred at a level crossing around 8:08 AM local time. No passengers on the train were injured, but the impact was described as "extremely violent," with the minibus thrown about 15 meters into a metal pylon. Belgian authorities confirmed that the crossing's barriers were down and the red light was activated at the time of the collision. Five other children on the bus were critically injured and remain in stable condition in the hospital. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident. Belgian officials, including Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, expressed their condolences to the affected families. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also offered her sympathies, stating, "Today, Europe grieves with Belgium."
Details of the Collision
The minibus was traveling on a street parallel to the railway before turning left onto the level crossing while the barriers were already down. The train, traveling at 120 km/h, struck the minibus as it entered the crossing. Footage from the scene showed the minibus lying on its side near the railway line, with significant damage to its front end. The train driver applied the emergency brakes, but the collision was unavoidable due to the proximity of the vehicles. Belgian Transport Minister Jean-Luc Crucke confirmed that the barriers were functioning correctly at the time of the incident.
Response and Investigations
Belgian authorities have launched a full investigation into the accident, with the public prosecutor's office overseeing the inquiry. The focus will be on determining whether any procedural or mechanical failures contributed to the collision. Belgian rail operator Infrabel noted that the country has a history of accidents at level crossings, with 36 fatalities reported since 2021. The investigation will also examine whether the minibus driver failed to observe the closed barriers or if other factors, such as visibility or signaling issues, played a role.
Public and Political Reactions
Belgian officials, including Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, expressed their shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Flemish Education Minister Zuhal Demir also offered her condolences, stating, "What heartbreaking news." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined the tributes, emphasizing the shared grief across Europe. The accident has reignited discussions about the safety of level crossings in Belgium, with some advocates calling for stricter regulations or the removal of such crossings in high-risk areas.