Belgium Yesterday was marked by several tragic incidents, including the serious injury of a 13-year-old in Bruges and deaths in a Venice boat accident. Trust disputes, criticism of a former judge, autumn weather warnings and travel disruptions also shaped the day.
A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured after falling from a hotel window in central Bruges on Tuesday afternoon. Emergency services took him to hospital for treatment. The incident is being investigated, including what preceded the fall and how it happened.
A breakdown in trust has emerged between Belgian football association chair Pascale Van Damme and CEO Peter Willems. Since the World Cup, the two have been unable to work together. The board of directors will meet at 4:30 p.m. today to discuss the situation and cooperation between the two senior figures.
During Tuesday’s assize trial over the death of 14-year-old Jairon, the former investigating judge faced sharp questions about the original investigation. The presiding judge and lawyers pointed to investigative leads that had not been sufficiently examined. His refusal to order hair-sample analysis and a reconstruction was also discussed. The former investigating judge acknowledged that he may have dismissed the matters too easily.
Priest Stéphane Fraiture was due to officiate at the wedding of 34-year-old Jordan Kinard in Libramont, Luxembourg province, on Saturday. On his way to the church, the groom was killed in an accident. The priest will instead preside over his funeral on Friday, while the local community remains deeply shocked by the sudden death.
Sean Michieli and Gabriela Querino, who had been married for three months, died after a collision in the Venice lagoon on Saturday morning. Their small boat hit a water taxi during an outing. Sean succumbed to his injuries in hospital the next day. Gabriela’s body was found after three days of searching.
The Province of Antwerp is launching an online campaign to prepare cyclists for less daylight, rain, fog and low autumn sun. Companies in the port area and municipalities in the Noorderkempen requested the campaign because cycling accidents often involve no other party. The province advises using properly adjusted lights, wearing reflective clothing and adapting speed.
Drone attacks targeted Saudi Arabia, disrupting oil giant Aramco’s operations. The company is now delaying oil deliveries to Europe, affecting the schedule for shipments to the European market as the attacks and their consequences unfold in Saudi territory. Aramco must reorganize its shipments.
An Iberia plane made an unscheduled landing at Zaventem Airport on Tuesday after smoke was reported aboard. A Brussels Airport spokesperson confirmed the incident on Wednesday. The exceptional procedure involved an aircraft operated by the Spanish airline, which was forced to interrupt its scheduled journey and head for Brussels Airport.
Every story in 60 words, three languages, free on iOS and Android. No account needed.
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play