Belgian diplomat and politician, Minister of the Interior (since Feb 2025)
A school minibus has been struck by a train at a level crossing in Buggenhout, Belgium, this morning, killing four people — the driver, a chaperone and two pupils — and injuring five children. Authorities have said barriers were closed and the red light was on; investigators are examining footage and questioning witnesses.
Emergency services have confirmed multiple fatalities and dozens evacuated as a fire at a high-rise construction site in Brussels spread through lift shafts. Investigators are probing the blaze’s cause while authorities vow to tighten safety standards across construction sites.
Belgians battle a historic wildfire in the High Fens as Europe endures a heat-driven fire season. Firefighters are reinforced by EU civil-protection aid; evacuations continue in several villages as authorities warn homes may be at risk.