Sept. 12 (UPI) -- A train derailment in northern France may have been caused by a malicious act, French authorities said.
"At this stage, the leading theory is that a piece of rail was present on one of the tracks, potentially causing the derailment. The reason for its presence is unknown," prosecutor Sébastien Gallois said Saturday.
There were 186 passengers aboard the train, which derailed in Cleon at about 8 p.m. Friday. The train was operating in Normandy between Rouen and Caen. There were 44 people injured including one woman who was flown to Rouen University Hospital in critical condition.
"The main victim is still in hospital but her life is no longer in danger. The other victims have received care and treatment; they have either been discharged or are about to be," Gallois said.
About 140 firefighters and other emergency teams were sent to the crash scene.
Gallois said the train's "black box" has been taken and "several interviews are scheduled, and a court-appointed expert has been called in."
One train car tipped onto its side, and four others left the tracks.
A spokesperson for the French police communications service said there was a piece of rail on the track that "probably" caused the derailment.
"The reasons for its presence are unknown and will have to be determined by the investigation," Gallois said.
One passenger told ICI Normandie radio about his experience.
"Suddenly there were a few jolts, and then after about three seconds it got stronger and stronger," Louis, the passenger said. "I couldn't stay in my seat anymore. The windows partially shattered, the stones from the track came into the carriage. It was really shocking. I'm still shaking."