French prosecutors are examining whether the derailment of a passenger train in Normandy on Friday evening resulted from a malicious act. The train was traveling between Rouen and Caen when it left the tracks near Cléon, injuring 44 of the 186 passengers on board. One 18-year-old woman remains in hospital after being airlifted in critical condition, though her life is no longer in danger. Officials have seized the train’s black box and scheduled interviews as part of the inquiry.
What caused the Normandy train derailment?
Prosecutor Sébastien Gallois stated that a piece of rail found on the tracks is the leading theory behind the derailment. The reason for its presence remains unknown at this stage. The incident occurred shortly before 20:00 local time on Friday near Cléon, south of Rouen. Emergency services including around 140 firefighters responded immediately to the scene.
How many people were injured in the train incident?
Forty-four passengers received treatment for injuries. An 18-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital in critical condition but has since stabilised. The remaining victims have either been discharged or are due to leave medical care. The train driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol, according to the Rouen prosecutor’s office.
What evidence is being examined in the investigation?
Authorities have seized the train’s black box for analysis. Several interviews are scheduled, and a court-appointed expert has been called in. Local media reported that 186 passengers were on board the Rouen to Caen service at the time of the derailment.
What did passengers describe during the derailment?
One passenger named Louis told ICI Normandie radio that the train experienced increasing jolts over several seconds. He described being unable to stay seated, with windows shattering and track stones entering the carriage. He said the experience left him still shaking afterward.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current status of the main victim?
The 18-year-old woman airlifted in critical condition is no longer in life-threatening danger and remains under hospital care.
Has any cause been confirmed for the derailment?
No cause has been confirmed. Investigators are treating a piece of rail on the track as the leading theory while examining whether its presence resulted from a malicious act.
Where exactly did the train derail?
The derailment took place near Cléon, just south of Rouen in Normandy, on the line between Rouen and Caen.
Key takeaways
Officials are investigating a possible malicious act after a piece of rail was found on the tracks. Forty-four passengers were injured, with one remaining in hospital. The train’s black box has been seized and interviews are underway. The driver tested negative for substances. Around 140 emergency personnel responded to the scene near Cléon.
