Collision between train and school bus in Belgium leaves four dead

At least four people, including two teenagers, died in Belgium on Tuesday (26) when a train collided with a school bus at a level crossing near the town of Buggenhout, broadcaster RTL reported, citing Transport Minister Jean-Luc Crucke.

The victims also included the bus driver and an adult who accompanied the students, Crucke told RTL. Two other people were also seriously injured, he added.

The accident occurred at a level crossing near Buggenhout station, about 23 kilometers from Brussels. Crucke said security cameras showed the level crossing gates had fallen.

The Minister of the Interior, Bernard Quintin, said: "I received with deep sadness the news of the tragic accident that occurred in Buggenhout." He did not provide further details.

A level crossing is the intersection where the railway meets the highway or a pedestrian crossing

Belgian police spokespeople did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Belgium, where a dense rail network criss-crosses cities and towns, has a history of level crossing accidents.

Five people died in accidents in 2025, according to the website of railway infrastructure operator Infrabel, the lowest number recorded since 2020.

Source: CNN