A French train derailment in Normandy on Friday evening left dozens injured. The accident occurred between the cities of Rouen and Caen, local authorities confirmed. At least 44 individuals sustained injuries in the incident.
The incident took place near Cleon and Tourville-la-Riviere. It happened around 7:30 p.m. local time. The Seine-Maritime prefect issued a statement regarding the situation.
One young woman suffered critical injuries. She was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital in Rouen, consequently. Around 180 passengers were on board when the train derailed, confirmed national rail company SNCF and the prefect.
French Transport Minister Tabarot reported a significant emergency response. More than 140 firefighters attended the scene. Authorities urged the public to avoid the affected area for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, the French rail network operator, SNCF Reseau, suspended all traffic on the line. Their immediate priority is passenger care. Furthermore, they aim to restore safe operating conditions swiftly.
A police spokesperson indicated an initial cause for the French train derailment. The train apparently struck an unidentified object. Subsequently, an investigation into the full circumstances of the accident is underway, SNCF stated.
