Two soldiers tragically lost their lives after their military vehicle collided with a TER train at a level crossing near Arras, France, on the morning of March 17, 2025. The accident, which occurred around 11:00 AM in Bailleul-Sir-Berthoult, has left the military community and local residents reeling.
The incident took place as the soldiers were reportedly conducting driving practice using their vehicle, identified as a Ford Explorer. It is believed they were stationary at the level crossing when the train, traveling from Hazebrouck to Arras and carrying approximately 100 passengers, struck them with devastating force.
Witness Marion Saudmont, who was nearby when the collision occurred, described the harrowing moments leading up to the impact: “We heard the train honking and then there was this huge boom. We ran over after hearing the passengers screaming.” The scene was chaotic, as the military vehicle was thrown several meters and hit the facade of a nearby house, indicating the violence of the collision.
Tragically, the soldiers who died were Corporal Rodolphe Charpentier and Private First Class Mathis Esnault, both attached to the 41st Transmission Regiment of Douai. A third soldier was also severely injured and is currently reported to be fighting for his life. The train passengers experienced varying degrees of shock and injury, with a few treated for minor wounds caused by the shattering of glass.
The Mayor of Bailleul-Sir-Berthoult, Bernard Tournant, expressed his condolences, stating, "It’s really an accident. Why? How? We don’t yet know, so let’s wait for the outcome of the investigation." An investigation has been launched by the Arras prosecutor’s office, focusing on why the military vehicle was stationary on the level crossing at the time of the incident.
This investigation involves not only gathering witness testimonies but also technical examinations to understand the conditions of the train crossing barriers, which are supposed to prevent such tragedies. Initial reports suggest no mechanical failure of the crossing signal apparatus was detected, but the exact circumstances remain unclear.
The train driver, who was traumatized but uninjured, reportedly saw the military vehicle from a distance, honked the horn, and applied the brakes, yet was unable to prevent the crash. Alcohol tests performed on both the soldiers and the train driver before the incident returned negative results, eliminating intoxication as a factor.
President Emmanuel Macron expressed his sorrow over the incident on X, stating, "Two of our soldiers have lost their lives in a tragic accident near Arras. My thoughts go out to their families, their brothers-in-arms, the injured, and all those engaging to defend the nation." Such statements show the impact of the event across the nation as community members mourn the loss of the lives of those serving their country.
Train operations between Arras and Lens were halted for the day following the incident, causing significant disruptions for passengers. SNCF reported the trains were diverted, and services will not resume until investigations and necessary inspections are completed, with expectations set for operations to return by the morning of March 18.
This accident is the latest tragic incident at the Bailleul-Sir-Berthoult crossing; another fatality occurred at the same site last June, which had been ruled as suicide. Mayor Tournant noted the heavy impact such events have on the community, emphasizing the need for increased safety and awareness around level crossings.
Throughout France, train safety is under renewed scrutiny following this latest accident. According to data, there were 39 train-related accidents last year, with 29 resulting in fatalities. This current tragedy has heightened conversations about the need for improved regulations and safety measures at intersections where vehicles meet railways.
The loss of these young soldiers resonates deeply, serving as a stark reminder of the risks associated with military life and training. The investigation's findings could have significant ramifications for safety protocols at level crossings and raise awareness for drivers and transport authorities moving forward.
For now, the community continues to grieve for Corporal Charpentier and Private First Class Esnault, as their families and friends seek closure and answers about the circumstances leading to the tragic loss.
