12 Killed As Train Hits School Van In Ukraine

45 people died in a similar accident in 2010
45 people died in a similar accident in 2010

 

A train collision with a van in the eastern Ukrainian region of Sumskaya, bordering on Russia has led to the death of 12 people and has injured five others, according to authorities.

The commuter train ploughed into the van at a level crossing near the town of Vira on Tuesday, they said.

The van which which was carrying mainly students and teachers who were returning home after the school day was dragged by the train for some 300 metres.

Railway officials said the van’s driver ignored the stop light prohibiting people from proceeding through the crossing and this was the cause of the collision.

President Viktor Yanukovych ordered the government to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident and assist the victims of the tragedy.