On March 17, 2025, tragedy struck near Arras, Pas-de-Calais, when two soldiers lost their lives after their military vehicle was struck by a TER train at level crossing 85, located on Rue de Thélus, Bailleul-Sire-Berthoult. The collision occurred around 11:00 AM, sending shockwaves through the local community as details began to emerge.
The military vehicle, which was transporting the soldiers, was reportedly hit with such force by the train traveling from Hazebrouck to Arras, it was thrown several meters. Conservation officials reported it hit both the façade of a nearby house and damaged electrical infrastructure known as catenary. Tragically, both soldiers died on impact, and the ordeal did not end there as one additional soldier was reported critically injured.
Eyewitnesses described the moments leading up to and following the disaster. One local resident recounted, "We were outside when we heard the train sounding its horn, then suddenly we heard this immense ‘boom’. We rushed over and saw the vehicle wrecked, with soldiers still trapped inside." Multiple emergency services, including helicopters and fire trucks, were deployed to the scene immediately after the incident was reported.
At around 1:30 PM, authorities were seen working diligently to evacuate the approximate 110 to 120 passengers from the train, causing considerable disruption along the key transport routes. The evacuation was conducted using buses to transport passengers to Arras station, where they were provided with meals and water.
According to sources from SNCF, who confirmed the incident, one passenger had sustained minor injuries from flying glass shards during the accident. The train's driver, though unharmed, was also reportedly left very shaken from the traumatic experience. Train travel along the Lens-Arras line was interrupted, emphasizing the extent of this unfortunate chain of events.
Even more alarmingly, this level crossing had previously been the site of tragedy; back in June 2024, another individual lost their life after being struck by a train at the same location. The local mayor, Bernard Tournant, expressed his sorrow over the latest incident and insisted, "Today it's about accidents and we can only wait for the full investigative results. Why did the military vehicle find itself at this perilous crossing?"
An investigation has been formally opened by Arras's prosecutor's office to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the latest incident. Authorities are analyzing whether the safety measures at the level crossing were appropriately engaged at the time of the collision. Witnesses affirm the barriers were lowered when the accident occurred, leading to questions about potential failures within the safety protocols.
French President Emmanuel Macron shared his condolences on social media, stating, "Two of our soldiers lost their lives in this tragic accident near Arras. My thoughts go out to their families, fellow soldiers, the injured, and all those dedicated to protecting the Nation." His words resonate deeply as the country grapples with the ramifications of this catastrophic event.
With reports surfacing about the condition of the military personnel involved and the investigation still underway, the community stands united, mourning the loss of its brave soldiers. The impact of this incident stretches far beyond those directly involved, affecting the entire country as it reflects on the safety of transportation systems and the wellbeing of its Armed Forces.
The aftermath of this tragic event continues to evolve as the SNCF updates on the eventual resumption of services, which is anticipated once the necessary precautions and inspections have been completed to guarantee passenger safety. The latest updates suggest normal service could resume by the following morning, but this is contingent upon completing the required investigations.
While the roads are tightly monitored and the area remains cordoned off for investigation, the community holds its breath, waiting for specifics, hoping for transparency, and wishing to honor the memories of those who paid the ultimate price defending their country.
