Boy dies after being hit by police vehicle in Antwerp
A nine-year-old boy has died after being hit by a police vehicle in Antwerp. He was hit while crossing the road by a van responding to a call.
The accident took place in Provinciestraat at around 9.45 on Wednesday morning. The police van had received an alert and was on its way to a callout. A vehicle from the railway police was on the street at the same time and moved aside to allow their colleagues to pass.
The child was crossing the road at the time and was struck by the police van. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, he died at the scene. The officers involved are receiving psychological assistance.
“The police officers immediately started administering first aid themselves while waiting for the emergency medical services,” the Antwerp public prosecutor’s office said. “Unfortunately, the boy died at the scene. Our first thoughts are with the victim’s family.”
Independent investigation
The public prosecutor has asked the Permanent Oversight Committee on the Police Services (Comité P) to conduct an investigation into the collision. The police vehicle was driving with flashing lights and siren on its way to an intervention, initial findings indicate.
The 25-year-old driver of the police vehicle submitted a negative alcohol and saliva test after the accident.
Antwerp city council expressed its condolences. “Our thoughts are first and foremost with the victim’s family and loved ones,” it said in a statement. “No words can ease the immense grief they are experiencing at this time. We sympathise with them and wish them every strength and support during this unimaginably difficult time.”
It did not comment on the circumstances of the accident, as they are under investigation. “In challenging times when our force is doing its utmost to ensure the safety of the people of Antwerp, the police vehicle was on its way to an urgent intervention,” it said. “The exact circumstances are being independently investigated.”
#FlandersNewsService | The site of the crash in Provinciestraat, Antwerp, 18 June 2025 © BELGA PHOTO JONAS ROOSENS
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