AI-generated summary
The train derailment occurred on the Rouen-Caen line in northern France, a route operated by SNCF. The incident happened near the town of Cleon in the Seine-Maritime department of Normandy.
At least 44 people were injured, one critically, after a passenger train derailed in Normandy, northern France, on Friday evening.
The incident occurred at around 7.30pm local time along the line running between Rouen and Caen, according to French authorities and the national railway operator.
The critically injured passengers were evacuated to hospital by helicopter, head of the local authority, the prefect, Jean-Benoit Albertini, told reporters. A French police spokesperson stated that the train came off the tracks after striking an unidentified object.
The service was carrying 180 passengers when it left the rails near the town of Cleon, French Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot said in a post on X. He added that 140 firefighters were deployed to the scene to assist the injured and remaining travellers.
Rail company SNCF confirmed an investigation was underway to determine the cause of the accident.
Meanwhile, the prefecture of Seine-Maritime advised the public to avoid the area.
Train services between Rouen and Caen, as well as Caen and Le Havre, were suspended, with replacement buses put in place.
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
An investigation will determine the cause of the derailment.
Very likely · Within weeks
Rail services will resume after safety checks and track repairs.
Likely · Within days

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A train derailed on the Rouen-Caen route in Normandy, France, on Friday evening near Cleon, injuring at least 44 people, including one critically injured passenger evacuated by helicopter. The train carried 180 passengers and hit an unidentified object, prompting a suspension of rail traffic and an ongoing investigation by SNCF.