Commotion as train driver jumps to his death from moving train
A shocking incident unfolded on Christmas Eve as a train driver employed by France’s national railway operator, SNCF, jumped to his death from a moving train, causing widespread disruption across the country’s rail network.
The tragedy, which occurred during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, left approximately 3,000 passengers stranded, with delays impacting services between Paris and southeastern France.
The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, reportedly leapt from the moving train on Tuesday. The prosecutor’s office in Melun, located southeast of Paris, confirmed that his body was later discovered near the tracks.
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In a statement, the prosecutor’s office revealed that the train’s automatic emergency protocol was triggered after the driver left the controls, bringing the train to a halt. The office emphasised that there was no indication of any foul play and described the death as an apparent suicide.
SNCF corroborated the report, confirming the tragic loss and ensuring the public that the safety of passengers onboard and elsewhere in the rail network was not compromised during the incident.
The incident caused significant delays to rail services on Christmas Eve, with the effects spilling over into Wednesday. Around 10 high-speed TGV trains were delayed by up to five hours, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated during the festive period.
SNCF stated that rail traffic was “resuming progressively” by Christmas Day but warned of possible lingering delays in affected routes.
The tragedy has sparked discussions about mental health support for transport workers. The pressures of the job, coupled with the responsibility of ensuring passenger safety, have been highlighted as potential stressors in the profession.
Rail unions and worker advocates have long called for enhanced psychological support and workplace interventions to address mental health challenges among transport staff.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the driver’s death. Meanwhile, SNCF extended its condolences to the driver’s family, colleagues, and loved ones, pledging to cooperate fully with investigators.
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