Train derails in France and injures 44 as authorities investigate possible sabotage, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/train-derails-france-injures-44-authorities-investigate-possible-sabot-rcna597370)
12-09-2026
On Friday evening, September 11, 2026, a regional passenger train carrying 186 people derailed near the town of Cléon in Normandy, northwestern France, leaving at least 44 people injured.Key details of the incident include:
- The Derailment: The train was traveling between Rouen and Caen when it came off the tracks around 7:45 p.m. local time, causing multiple carriages to derail and overturn.
- Casualties and Emergency Response: Local authorities activated a mass-casualty response protocol, deploying around 140 firefighters, emergency medical teams, and rescue vehicles. Out of the 44 injured, an 18-year-old woman sustained severe injuries and was airlifted in critical condition to Rouen University Hospital.
- Investigation and Suspected Sabotage: Investigators found a detached fragment or section of rail sitting on the tracks, which appears to have triggered the crash. French police and judicial authorities are treating the possibility of deliberate sabotage or malicious intent as a primary line of inquiry, though they remain cautious as forensic and technical investigations continue.
- Train Driver Cleared: The Rouen prosecutor confirmed that standard toxicology screenings for drugs and alcohol conducted on the train driver were negative.
- Service Disruption: National rail operator SNCF suspended rail services along the impacted route to allow rescue teams, safety inspectors, and forensic experts to secure and analyze the scene.