Minibus collision with train near French Channel Tunnel entrance injures 19

Nineteen people were injured on Thursday evening when a minibus collided with a train at the French entrance to the Channel Tunnel near Calais. France 24, Euronews, Sky News, DW, and the South China Morning Post all reported the 19 injuries. The minibus was transporting heavy goods vehicle drivers to board a shuttle train when the incident occurred, according to France 24, Euronews, and DW. [1][2][3][4][6]

Reports differed slightly on the severity of the injuries and state of the train. DW and the South China Morning Post both stated that the minibus collided with a stationary train, injuring the driver and 18 passengers. DW and France 24 reported that two people were severely injured and taken to a hospital, with DW adding that they were airlifted to Lille. However, the South China Morning Post and thejournal.ie reported that five people were severely injured. The Pas-de-Calais prefecture confirmed that no lives were in danger, according to Euronews, DW, BBC News, and the South China Morning Post. [1][2][4][5][6][7]

The incident caused temporary travel delays in the region. France 24 reported that cross-Channel shuttle services were suspended for 90 minutes following the crash. Euronews noted that French broadcaster TF1 reported the minibus struck the train for reasons that remain unclear. [1][2]

The Channel Tunnel opened in 1994 and is a 50.46-kilometre railway tunnel beneath the English Channel. It connects Folkestone in the United Kingdom with Coquelles in northern France, serving as the only fixed link between Great Britain and the European mainland. [11]

Authorities launched an inquiry to determine what caused the collision, DW reported. [4]