In brief
A passenger train operating between Rouen and Caen derailed near the commune of Cléon, injuring at least 44 people, including one in critical condition. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed 180 passengers were on board and that 140 emergency personnel were deployed to the scene. SNCF reported significant service disruptions and will supply replacement buses. Authorities have activated a mass‑casualty response plan and are still investigating the cause of the derailment.
Passenger train derails in northern France, leaving 44 injured
At least 44 people were hospitalized when a passenger train operating between Rouen and Caen derailed near the commune of Cléon on Friday night, according to local officials and the state‑owned rail operator SNCF.
The crash, involving three overturned carriages, prompted the activation of a mass‑casualty response plan. Firefighters, paramedics and police teams were on scene by 20:00 local time, and the Transport Minister said 140 emergency officers were deployed.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot confirmed that 180 passengers were aboard. One victim, an 18‑year‑old woman, was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. No causes were yet identified and investigators are examining the tracks, the train and the signalling system.
SNCF has announced “significant disruptions” on its Normandy routes and will provide replacement buses. Officials advised residents and travellers to stay away from the area while the investigation continues.
