Train derailment near Rouen probed after rail piece found; malicious act under investigation

French investigators say a piece of rail found on one track is the leading explanation for a passenger train derailment near Rouen on Friday evening, but the reason the fragment was on the track is unknown, prosecutor Sébastien Gallois said.

Local media reported 186 passengers were aboard the service between Rouen and Caen. Emergency responders treated 44 people; an 18-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital in critical condition and later reported to be no longer in life-threatening danger, while others have been discharged or are nearing discharge.

The derailment occurred near Cléon, south of Rouen, shortly before 20:00 (18:00 GMT). About 140 firefighters and other emergency teams were deployed to the scene. Prosecutors said the train's 'black box' has been seized, a court-appointed expert was called in, and several interviews are scheduled.

The Rouen prosecutor's office also said the train driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol. A passenger who spoke to ICI Normandie described sudden jolts and broken windows during the incident.

Investigators continue to probe whether the derailment resulted from a malicious act; the presence of the rail fragment is confirmed but its origin remains unverified.