Multiple people dead after train crashes into school bus

BREAKING.

The accident took place in Buggenhout, Belgium.

According to Sky News, the level crossing was shut at the time of the crash.

VRT Nws said the "barriers were down, traffic lights were red" when a train hit a bus transporting school students.

Thomas Baeken, from the Belgian rail track operator Infrabel, told VRT: "The collision took place at 8.08 am. Footage shows that the barriers were down and the traffic lights were red.

"We do not know how the accident could have happened. That is for the police and the public prosecutor's office to investigate."

Baeken added: "The train was already slowing down. The driver applied the emergency brake, but was not able to avoid the collision.

There has also been damage to the infrastructure.

"This remains secondary. Our thoughts go above all to the victims, to their family and their close ones," Baeken said.

"Trains services have been disrupted between Londerzeel and Dendermonde in both directions."

Belgium's justice minister said that 'all words fail' following the crash.

Annelies Verlinden said: "My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all the victims, the children, their families and everyone affected by this tragedy today. I wish everyone much warm closeness.

"Thank you to the emergency services and the police for their swift intervention and their sustained efforts on site. The prosecutor's office is of course also continuing to follow up on this accident."

Interior minister Bernard Quintin said: "My thoughts go out to the victims and their loved ones. I wish the injured much strength. Thank our emergency services for their swift response on site."

More to follow.