French officials are investigating whether a malicious act caused a passenger train derailment in northern France that left 44 people injured, according to reports from the BBC and AOL.com. The incident occurred on Friday evening near Cléon, just south of Rouen, and involved a train traveling between Rouen and Caen in Normandy.

Investigation into the Cause of the Derailment

Prosecutor Sébastien Gallois stated that the leading theory is the presence of a piece of rail on one of the tracks, potentially causing the derailment, but the reason for its presence is unknown. According to the Rouen prosecutor’s office, the train driver tested negative for drugs and alcohol, ruling out impairment as a factor.

“The train’s ‘black box’ has been seized; Several interviews are scheduled, and a court-appointed expert has been called in,” Gallois said in a press release, and the investigation is ongoing, with officials working to determine if the presence of the rail was intentional.

Impact on Passengers and Emergency Response

The train carried 186 passengers when it derailed shortly before 20:00 (18:00 GMT). Forty-four people were treated for injuries, including an 18-year-old woman who was airlifted to hospital in a critical condition. The main victim is still in hospital but her life is no longer in danger. The other victims have received care and treatment; they have either been discharged or are about to be.

Some 140 firefighters and other emergency teams were immediately deployed to the crash scene. Louis, a passenger on the train, described the moment of the derailment to ICI Normandie radio. “Suddenly there were a few jolts, and then after about three seconds it got stronger and stronger. I couldn’t stay in my seat anymore. The windows partially shattered, the stones from the track came into the carriage. It was really shocking. I’m still shaking,” he added.

Ongoing Inquiries and Public Concern

As the investigation continues, officials are seeking to understand whether the derailment was the result of a deliberate act. The presence of the rail on the track raises questions about the possibility of sabotage. The Rouen prosecutor’s office has not ruled out any possibilities and is working closely with experts to gather more information.

The incident has sparked concern among the public, particularly given the severity of some of the injuries. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the derailment to come forward as part of the investigation into the cause of the incident.