Train hits minibus in eastern Turkey, killing 7

By Ramazan Kaya

ELAZIG, Turkey (AA) - A train hit a minibus at a level crossing in eastern Turkey, killing seven people and injuring two others on Monday, according to health sources.

The train was bound for Ankara from the eastern Bitlis province when it hit and dragged the minibus for about 100 meters in the eastern Elazig province, according to eyewitnesses at the scene.

The two injured people are currently under medical treatment, health sources said on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to media.

A minibus, which functions as a shared taxi for passengers, is a common mode of transportation in Turkey.

Anadolu Agency photos showed gendarmerie forces preventing access to the scene and four bodies on the ground, covered with an orange blanket.

*Anadolu Agency Correspondent Servet Gunerigok contributed to this report from Ankara.