A truck collided with a high-speed TGV train in northern France on Tuesday, April 7th, resulting in the death of the train’s 56-year-old engineer and approximately 15 injuries.
Train-Truck Collision in Northern France
On Tuesday, April 7th, a truck collided with a TGV high-speed train at a railway crossing in Noeux-les-mines, located between the prefectures of Béthune and Lens in northern France. The train was carrying 246 passengers.
The accident occurred at 6:48 AM. The TGV, traveling from Dunkirk to Paris, struck the truck at the railway crossing. At the time of the impact, the train was traveling at approximately 130-140 km/h.
Driver and Vehicle Details
The driver involved in the accident in France has been detained and is a civilian. The truck was part of a civilian convoy operated by a private company.
The truck was transporting a “mobile military bridge” to France, which had been used during military exercises in Belgium, according to the French army.
Disruption to Rail Service
Jean Castex, President of the French National Railway Company (SNCF), stated that rail traffic on the line will be completely suspended for at least a week.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot announced on platform X that he would visit the scene with SNCF Director General and former French Prime Minister Jean Castex.