Tragedy in Buggenhout: Four Dead Following Train and Minibus Collision

A small community in northern Belgium is in mourning following a fatal collision between a train and a school minibus in the town of Buggenhout. The incident, which occurred shortly after 08:00 local time on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, has claimed the lives of four people, including two children.

Details of the Collision

The minibus was transporting seven children to a special education school when the collision took place. According to federal police spokeswoman An Berger, the vehicle was traveling on a street parallel to the railway line before the driver turned onto the level crossing. At the time of the maneuver, the safety barriers at the crossing were already in the lowered position.

The impact was severe, with the train traveling at approximately 90 km/h. Following the initial collision with the train, the minibus struck a pole before coming to a rest in the driveway of a nearby residence. The two children who lost their lives in the crash have been identified as residents of the town of Bornem, located 12km north of the accident site.

Victims and Emergency Response

Authorities confirmed that there were nine people on board the bus at the time of the crash: seven children, a 49-year-old driver and a 27-year-old chaperone. Both adults were among the four individuals who died. The five surviving children were transported to a hospital, where they remain in a critical but stable condition.

There were no reported injuries among the passengers on the train, though one person received medical attention for shock. Belgian mobility minister Jean-Luc Crucke acknowledged the reports stating that the level crossing barriers were functional and down at the time of the incident.

Investigation Underway

Federal police have launched an official investigation to determine the precise circumstances that led the minibus to enter the crossing while the safety barriers were engaged. The train remained stationary at the scene for an extended period as investigators and forensics teams conducted their work.

Flemish education minister Zuhal Demir expressed her condolences via social media, stating, “My thoughts are with all the victims, their families and everyone closely involved.”

Key Takeaways

• Casualties: Four confirmed fatalities, including two children and two adults (the driver and a chaperone).
• Injuries: Five children remain in critical but stable condition at local hospitals.
• Location: The accident occurred in Buggenhout, northern Belgium, at a level crossing.
• Status: An investigation is currently ongoing by federal authorities to determine the cause of the crossing entry.

This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as official reports from the investigation are released.