Train derails in northern France, injuring 44 people
A train derailed in northern France near the town of Cleon, resulting in 44 injuries, one of which is critical. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause, which involved the train striking an unidentified object.
Why it matters
This is a significant public safety incident affecting regional transportation infrastructure in France.
A train derailed between Rouen and Caen in Normandy, northern France, injuring 44 people on Friday (September 11, 2026) evening at around 7:30 p.m. local time, French authorities and the French railway operator said.
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.
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.
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.
There are 140 firefighters at the scene to help the injured and the passengers, he added.
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