Passenger Train Derails in France, Injuring at Least 44; Sabotage Reports Emerge

At least 44 people were injured, including one person with serious injuries, when a passenger train derailed in northern France on Friday evening, local officials said.

An 18-year-old woman was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital in critical condition.

The train was operating the Rouen-Caen route in Normandy and had 186 passengers on board, officials said. The derailment happened shortly before 20:00 local time (18:00 GMT) near Cléon, just south of Rouen.

The Rouen-Caen line connects two major cities in Normandy and is part of the region's rail network. The crash is expected to disrupt service in the area as investigators work at the site.

Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said 140 firefighters and other emergency teams were deployed to the scene.

The cause of the crash was not immediately known. Reports in French media suggested it could have been an act of sabotage, but authorities have not commented on that possibility.

Local authorities activated a mass-casualty response plan after the crash.

Louis, a passenger on the train, told ICI Normandie radio that the impact came without warning. “Suddenly there were a few jolts, and then after about three seconds it got stronger and stronger,” he said. “I couldn't stay in my seat any more. The windows partially shattered, the stones from the track came into the carriage. It was really shocking. I'm still shaking.”

Photographs later emerged showing passengers leaving the train. According to French media, three train cars had overturned.

While officials have not confirmed any cause, the sabotage reports are likely to sharpen scrutiny of rail security in France and add pressure for a swift explanation of what happened on a regional route.