Belgian and European leaders have expressed shock and sorrow after a tragic train collision near Buggenhout, in the Flemish region of Belgium, left multiple victims and prompted an ongoing investigation. Flemish education minister Zuhal Demir wrote on social media that it was “heartbreaking news” and said her thoughts were with the victims, their families, and everyone involved. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Europe was grieving with Belgium. The incident has drawn widespread attention because of the severity of the crash and the number of children affected.
According to Thomas Baeken, a spokesman for Belgian rail network Infrabel, the train was slowing down as it approached Buggenhout station when the collision happened. He told public broadcaster VRT that early indications from CCTV footage showed the lights at the level crossing were red and the barrier was down at the time of the accident. Other people who viewed the footage reportedly told Belgian media that the minibus appeared to strike the barrier before the crash. Authorities have stressed that the exact cause has not yet been established and that investigators will determine how the tragedy unfolded.
Baeken said it was still unknown how the accident could have happened and that the matter was now in the hands of police and the public prosecutor’s office. Flemish minister Annick De Ridder also described the news as terrible, while saying it was too early to assign blame or responsibility. Officials have been careful not to speculate as the investigation continues.
At a press conference late on Tuesday afternoon, the public prosecutor’s office said the train driver had passed a breathalyser test. Authorities also said a post-mortem examination was being carried out on the minibus driver, who had no criminal convictions. No additional information was released about the condition of the five children who were taken to hospital. The lack of updates has added to public concern, as families wait for clearer news about those injured in the collision.
King Philippe offered his gratitude to emergency services and sent his support to everyone affected, wishing them “a lot of strength and support” in the face of what he called a dramatic event. The mayor of Buggenhout, Geert Hermans, ended a press conference by asking for a minute of silence in memory of the victims. The gesture reflected the deep sense of grief in the local community and across Belgium after the fatal accident.
As investigations continue, officials are focusing on collecting evidence from the crash site, reviewing CCTV footage, and determining whether any technical or human factors contributed to the collision. The incident has underscored the dangers at railway crossings and the devastating impact such accidents can have on families and communities. For now, Belgium remains in mourning, with leaders and residents alike expressing sympathy for the victims and hoping for the recovery of those injured.
