Child Among Dead After Car Rams Belgian Carnival Crowd
A horrific tragedy struck in Belgium early this morning when a speeding car ploughed into a group gathered for a traditional Carnival ceremony. The shocking incident left a child dead, 12 seriously hurt, and 20 more with minor injuries, local officials confirmed.
Speeding Car Crashes into Festive Crowd
At around 5am, during the annual early morning Carnival event, a vehicle smashed into about 150 people preparing for the folklore parade filled with costumes and drums. Jacques Gobert, mayor of nearby La Louviere, described the chaos to RTBF:
“A car drove from the back at high speed. We have a few dozen injured and unfortunately several people who are killed.”
“The driver was intercepted as he tried to get away.”
The cause and motive remain unclear as authorities continue their investigation.
From Celebration to Horror in Seconds
Eyewitness Fabrice Collignon, reporting for Bel RTL, recounted the terrifying moment:
“We heard an immense noise… and the car literally went into the group of people.”
“It’s a scene I never thought I’d see in my life. There was music and smiles and three seconds later, people were screaming.”
Local hospitals have activated emergency protocols. Several victims are in intensive care, with doctors brought in urgently to handle the crisis.
Govt Officials React to Tragedy
Belgian Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden offered condolences and pledged close monitoring of the unfolding situation. She tweeted:
“What was supposed to have been a great party turned into a tragedy. We are monitoring the situation closely.”
As the investigation continues, the nation mourns the victims of this heartbreaking early morning carnage.