BUGGENHOUT, Belgium (AP) — A tragic train accident occurred on May 26, 2026, when a high-speed train collided with a minibus at a railway crossing in Buggenhout, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including two children aged 12 and 15. This incident stands as one of the worst rail disasters in Belgium's history, leaving five other children severely injured.

Authorities reported that the minibus, which was carrying nine passengers, failed to stop at a closed crossing barrier. Surveillance footage captured the moment the bus entered the track while the barriers were down and the warning lights were activated. This collision happened during the morning rush hour, approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of Brussels, the capital city.

Lisa De Wilde, a spokesperson for the East Flanders public prosecutor's office, confirmed that the minibus driver and an escort were among those killed. The five injured children were transported to the hospital, where they were reported to be in serious condition. Although the precise cause of the crash remains undetermined, De Wilde noted that the evidence indicates the crossing's signals were functioning correctly at the time of the incident.

Frédéric Sacré, a spokesperson for Infrabel, the Belgian rail operator, revealed that the train was traveling at approximately 120 kph (75 mph) when it struck the minibus and had “no time to brake.” The impact of the collision was described as “extremely violent.” Eyewitness accounts indicated that the minibus was overturned, with its front section significantly crushed, while the train itself remained relatively unscathed.

There were around 100 passengers aboard the train at the time of the accident, and fortunately, no injuries were reported among them. Following the crash, rail traffic in the vicinity was suspended as authorities began their investigations. Local officials gathered for a moment of silence in remembrance of the victims after a news conference.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed his condolences on social media, stating he was “deeply moved by the horrific accident in Buggenhout” and extending his thoughts to the affected families. The community was profoundly impacted, with children playing basketball and riding bicycles at a nearby school at the time of the tragedy.

This devastating incident underscores the critical importance of railway safety and adherence to traffic signals at crossings. As investigations continue, authorities aim to determine the events that led to this heartbreaking loss of life, as the nation mourns the lives cut short and the families affected by this disaster.