Rail services between Leuven and Tienen were restored at approximately 9.00 p.m. on Monday, according to railway infrastructure manager Infrabel, after being blocked in both directions from just before 4.00 p.m. following a fatal accident in Roosbeek, in Flemish Brabant.
“We are still awaiting the police and prosecutor’s investigation, but based on our initial data, the tragic incident occurred around 3:45 p.m. at the level crossing on Kolemveldstraat,” said Infrabel spokesperson Thomas Baeken.
A young cyclist, reportedly a primary school student, was struck by a train at that location, according to various media reports.
“Preliminary information suggests that the signalling at the level crossing was functioning correctly and the barriers were closed,” added Baeken. “This means the lights were red and the barriers were down. Further investigation will need to determine the exact cause of the accident.”
Around 70 passengers were on the train involved in the incident. They were evacuated by bus.
Train services between Leuven and Tienen were completely halted in both directions due to the accident.
The National railway utility, SNCB, arranged replacement buses, and where possible, trains were rerouted via Aarschot.
