French investigators examine possible sabotage in Normandy train derailment

French authorities are investigating whether a passenger train that derailed Friday evening was caused by a malicious act.

The primary hypothesis is that a piece of rail was placed on the track, causing the derailment; the reason for its presence remains unknown, said prosecutor Sébastien Gallois on Saturday.

Local media reported that 186 passengers were aboard the train traveling between Rouen and Caen in Normandy.

Forty‑four people received treatment for injuries, among them an 18‑year‑old woman who was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition.

The train’s black box has been secured; several interviews are scheduled and a court‑appointed expert has been commissioned, prosecutor Gallois said in a press release.

The primary victim remains hospitalized but is no longer in life‑threatening condition; the other injured have received care and are either discharged or preparing to leave.

The Rouen prosecutor’s office reported that the train driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol.

The train derailed near Cléon, just south of Rouen, shortly before 20:00 (18:00 GMT); approximately 140 firefighters and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene.

“Suddenly there were a few jolts, and then after about three seconds it got stronger and stronger,” Louis, a passenger on the train, told ICI Normandie radio.

“I couldn’t stay in my seat any longer. The windows partially shattered, and stones from the track came into the carriage. It was really shocking. I’m still shaking,” he added.

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