At least 19 people have been injured after a freight train collided with a minibus near the entrance to the Channel Tunnel on the French side, local authorities have said.
The incident occurred in Pas-de-Calais at the loading area where vehicles board the Le Shuttle service, which transports vehicles through the Channel Tunnel between France and the United Kingdom.
According to the Pas-de-Calais prefecture, the vehicle involved was a minibus carrying heavy goods vehicle drivers who were preparing to board the shuttle.
Initial information indicated that 19 people were involved in the incident. Authorities reported no deaths and said none of the injuries were considered life-threatening.
Emergency Services Respond to the Scene
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene following the collision, while local officials prepared to provide further information about the circumstances of the crash.
The incident took place in a key transport area used by drivers travelling between continental Europe and the United Kingdom.
The Channel Tunnel is an important link for passenger and freight transport, while Le Shuttle carries cars, coaches and other vehicles between terminals in France and England.
Authorities Await Further Details
The precise circumstances that led to the collision had not been fully established in the initial reports.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as emergency operations and inquiries progress. Details about the extent of the injuries and any disruption to transport services may also be clarified in subsequent announcements.
The immediate priority remained the response to the injured and the assessment of the incident site.
This report is based on the initial information released by French authorities. Further details may emerge as the investigation continues.
