Collision between a train and a school bus at a level crossing

The Pyrénées-Orientales Prefecture has just issued a press release regarding an accident that occurred at around 4 pm at level crossing No. 25 in Millas on the Perpignan–Villefranche line.

The bus is reported to have been hit from behind by the TER train. Emergency services have been mobilised on a large scale (one advanced medical post, two civil protection helicopters, two SAMU helicopters, 95 firefighters and 15 gendarmerie units) following the activation of the ‘Plan Blanc’ and the ‘ORSEC’ plan, Annex NoVi (Multiple Casualties). The departmental operations centre has been activated by the prefect to coordinate the rescue operations. At least five people have died and 24 have been injured (21 secondary school pupils travelling on the bus and three passengers on the TER train). The Prefect, the Public Prosecutor, the Prime Minister, the Minister for Transport, the Minister for Education and the Chairman of the SNCF have visited the scene. Accredited civil protection organisations are on hand to support and guide the families. Parents can obtain information from the secondary school or by calling 04 68 51 67 67. The public prosecutor in Marseille and officers from the Montpellier Criminal Investigation Division are leading the inquiry. Perpignan Town Hall has organised a minute’s silence this Saturday, 16 December, to pay tribute to the victims.