Train derails in northwest France, 44 injured

A train carrying 186 passengers derailed in northwest France on Friday, injuring 44 people, with one of the injuries being serious, officials reported. The incident occurred while the train was en route between the Normandy cities of Rouen and Caen. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot announced the derailment on X, and local authorities confirmed the event took place around 7:45pm local time.

The cause of the derailment remains under investigation by rail authorities and the police. However, it is believed that the train experienced sudden jolts, which gradually intensified over a span of approximately three seconds. Passenger Louis, aged 24, described the terrifying scene, stating that the train's windows partially shattered, and stones from the track entered the carriage. He expressed his shock, saying it was still affecting him, as he shook uncontrollably.

Among the injured, an 18-year-old woman was evacuated in critical condition. Tests conducted on the train driver for drugs and alcohol yielded negative results. Emergency services, including 130 firefighters, five medical teams, and 80 vehicles, were promptly deployed to respond to the accident. The French rail network's controlling entity, SNCF Reseau, suspended traffic on the affected line and cut power to the tracks to facilitate the emergency response. Their primary focus is on providing care to the passengers and restoring safe operating conditions.