Two women, two children killed in car accident near Roosendaal; One arrested

Two women and two children were killed in a traffic accident in Oud Gastel, Noord-Brabant on Friday evening. A third child was also hospitalized, police said. One of the drivers involved in the two-car crash just north of Roosendaal was taken into police custody.

All five victims of the crash were together in a Toyota, police told Nu.nl and newswire ANP. Police withheld information about their identities and biographical details for hours while they notified next of kin.

There were three men inside the other vehicle, a Mercedes, broadcaster NOS reported. They were all unharmed. The driver of the Mercedes was taken into custody, and the passengers were brought to a police station to give a formal statement.

The incident happened just before 6:30 p.m. on Blauwhekken. Police officers and firefighters raced to the scene, as did at least four ambulances, and two trauma teams traveling by helicopter.

“The accident resulted in many injuries and multiple fatalities. That is why several ambulances and trauma helicopters have been called,” police said on Twitter.

“One of the drivers has since been arrested. We are conducting extensive research, which includes traffic specialists on site,” police continued. They said it was unclear why the two cars collided.

The road was still completely closed at 8 p.m., as were nearby highway exits. “The road will remain closed for the time being for investigation.” The forensic traffic investigators were expected to need several hours to sort out what exactly happened.

In the meantime, police asked any witnesses to contact them to give a statement.