Sabotage suspected in French train derailment

Yesterday, a train derailment in northwest France injured 44 people, one critically, raising suspicions of sabotage, according to investigators. The train, carrying 186 passengers, derailed near Renault's factory in the town of Cleon while en route between the Normandy cities of Rouen and Caen at approximately 7:45 pm. The incident occurred following a series of jolts, with the train's windows partially shattering as stones from the track entered the carriage.

One passenger, 24-year-old Louis, recounted the harrowing experience, stating that the event was "really shocking" and that he was still shaken.

Authorities activated a mass-casualty response plan, deploying 130 firefighters, five medical teams, and 80 vehicles to the scene. The train driver's drug and alcohol tests returned negative. The injured, including an 18-year-old woman in critical condition, were taken to various medical facilities for treatment. The railway staff worked diligently to manage the aftermath of the derailment.

SNCF Reseau, the entity controlling the French rail network, suspended traffic on the affected line and cut power to the tracks to facilitate emergency services. Major disruptions were reported on the Rouen-Caen and Caen-Le Havre routes in both directions. A replacement bus service was established for passengers while the train remained off the tracks. The public prosecutor's office has led the investigation into the cause of the derailment, with SNCF Reseau expressing full cooperation in the inquiry.