Train derails in northern France, injuring 44 people

France Train Derailment Near Rouen Injures 44 and Suspends Rail Service

Details of the Normandy Train Accident

Incident Overview

PARIS, Sept 11 (Reuters) - A train derailed between Rouen and Caen in Normandy, northern France, injuring 44 people on Friday evening at around 7:30 p.m. local time, French authorities and the French railway operator said. 

Casualties and Emergency Response

One of those injured is in a critical state and was evacuated by helicopter, the head of the local authority, the prefect, Jean-Benoit Albertini, told reporters.

Cause and Investigation

The train derailed after hitting an unidentified object, a spokesperson for the French police said. The French railway operator, SNCF, said that an investigation to identify the cause of the accident was underway.

Impact on Passengers and Rail Service

Passenger Details and Immediate Actions

The train was carrying 180 passengers and went off the rails near the town of Cleon, French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said in a post on X.

Emergency Services at the Scene

There are 140 firefighters at the scene to help the injured and the passengers, he added.

Public Advisory and Service Suspension

The local authority, the prefecture of Seine-Maritime, advised the public to avoid the area.

The train service between Rouen and Caen, and Caen and Le Havre was suspended and a replacement bus service will be put in place, SNCF said.

(Reporting by Layli Foroudi, Richard Lough, Inti Landauro; Editing by Aurora Ellis)