A passenger train derailed on Friday evening in northwest France, resulting in at least 44 injuries. The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. local time near the municipalities of Cleon and Tourville-la-Riviere, situated between the cities of Rouen and Caen in the Normandy region.
The Seine-Maritime prefecture reported that one injured passenger, a young woman, remains in critical condition. She was transported by helicopter to a hospital in Rouen for specialized care.
According to national rail operator SNCF, the train was carrying approximately 180 passengers at the time of the accident. A police spokesperson stated that the derailment happened after the train struck an unidentified object. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.
French Transport Minister Tabarot confirmed that 140 firefighters responded to the scene. Local officials have urged the public to avoid the area as emergency crews manage the aftermath. SNCF Reseau, the network operator, announced that rail traffic on the affected line has been suspended. “The priority is to care for the passengers and then to restore safe operating conditions,” the operator said in a statement.
Thank goodness for the swift emergency response. The firefighters and medics did an incredible job managing such chaos.
44 injured is a lot for a minor derailment. I’m skeptical about the ‘unidentified object’ explanation without more details.
I take the Normandy route regularly. This is a huge disruption. Commuters are going to suffer for weeks.
What could possibly be on the tracks? Hitting an unidentified object sounds dangerous and unexpected.
Absolutely terrifying news. I hope everyone, especially that young woman in critical condition, pulls through safely.