French officials investigate if 'malicious act' caused train derailment

French authorities are examining whether a malicious act caused a passenger train derailment on Friday evening between Rouen and Caen. Prosecutor Sébastien Gallois stated on Saturday that investigators recovered a fragment of obstruction from the tracks, noting that the reasons for its presence remain "unknown." Local media reported that 186 passengers were aboard the service traveling from Rouen to Caen in Normandy. Forty‑four individuals received medical treatment for injuries, including an 18‑year‑old woman who was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition. Approximately 140 firefighters and other emergency responders were deployed to the scene near Cléon, just south of Rouen, shortly before 20:00 (18:00 GMT). Louis, a passenger on the train, described the incident to ICI Normandie radio: "Suddenly determination were a fewer jolts, and past aft astir 3 seconds it got stronger and stronger," he said. He added, "I couldn't enactment successful my spot anymore. The windows partially shattered, the stones from the way came into the carriage. It was truly shocking. I'm inactive shaking," helium added. The Rouen prosecutor's office confirmed that the train operator tested negative for drugs and alcohol.