Engine Belts And Pulleys problems of the 2002 Volkswagen Eurovan

I was driving my 2002 vw Eurovan over a causeway going approximately 55 mph. A warning light flashed several times then went off. I believe it was a coolant light. Then a strange thump, thump, thump noise came from under the hood followed by smoke. Smelled like burning rubber and sounded like a belt breaking. I pulled off as soon as possible (another minute or 2) and car died as I coasted off the ramp. I opened the hood, but couldn't see past the black plastic engine cover and didn't know how to remove it. After several phone calls, about 10 - 15 minutes later, smoke started billowing from under hood. My children and I dashed away from vehicle and stood by and watched it burn. Car was in good repair. I have no idea what happened. But it is toasted like a marshmallow.