On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, a significant road accident involving military personnel took place on the A13 highway in Yvelines, France, injuring 36 individuals. The collision involved four buses from the Republican Guard, transporting military students from various branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie.
The incident occurred around 6:40 PM near Guerville, while the buses, carrying approximately 120 cadets, were returning from a command training seminar held at the Evreux airbase. Eyewitness reports indicated a chaotic scene, as emergency responders swiftly mobilized to assist the injured.
According to reports from multiple sources, including Le Parisien and BFMTV, the preliminary assessment cited 36 injured, among which one individual was in serious condition but without life-threatening injuries. Initially, the estimates suggested two serious injuries, but later confirmatory reports adjusted those figures. Responders activated Plan Novi level 1, a protocol designed to address incidents with multiple victims, facilitating the prompt transport of the injured to nearby hospitals.
The injured were taken to several medical facilities in the region, with many receiving treatment for minor injuries. The seriously hurt individual was reported to be one of the bus drivers, who required extrication from the wreckage, highlighting the gravity of the crash. Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, expressed his condolences and gratitude toward rescue personnel via social media, stating, "Pensées pour l’ensemble des blessés, leurs familles, leurs camarades d’école et frères d’armes. Remerciements aux secours mobilisés." This statement underscores the deep sense of community and support within the military circle during such tragic events.
Despite the pivotal role played by emergency crews, which included about 30 vehicles and 50 firefighters, the precise circumstances leading to the accident remain uncertain and are currently under investigation. Initial theories suggest the collision may have escalated due to a light vehicle attempting to merge into the lane of the buses, causing a chain reaction. The authorities are expected to conduct a thorough inquiry to clarify all aspects surrounding the collision.
The severity of injuries and the involvement of young military students returning to base amplified the concerns regarding road safety, especially for those engaged in such vital training endeavors. The crash also prompted reflection on the challenges of managing transport logistics for military groups—issues previously raised during discussions about safety protocols for transporting large numbers of personnel.
This unfortunate accident stands as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with road travel, particularly for those who serve their country. As investigations continue, the military community and the families of those involved seek to understand the factors that led to this collision while expressing their hopes for swift recoveries for the injured.
As discussions unfold around military transport safety, communities will likely observe any changes in policies or protocols aimed at safeguarding those who represent the nation. Ultimately, the focus remains on the wellbeing of the 36 individuals impacted by this incident, with hopes that their healing process is swift and supported by their comrades, families, and friends.
