Lens

Lens, France, is a city near Bully-les-Mines, where a high-speed TGV train collided with a truck at a level crossing on April 7, 2026. This event has brought Lens into the news due to the disruption of rail traffic between Lens and Bethune. The accident resulted in the death of the train driver, Claudio D., and injuries to several passengers. The incident has also highlighted concerns about the safety of level crossings in France, as this is not an isolated event. Investigations are underway, with the truck driver facing potential charges. The French Minister of Transport is expected to visit the site. The accident has brought renewed attention to the safety record of SNCF, the French national railway company, despite significant investments in safety measures.