On May 29th, a tragic incident unfolded at a level crossing on the Route de Dax, near RD 810, where a collision occurred between a TER train and two pedestrians. At approximately 3 PM, witnesses reported the accident, prompting a swift response from the Bénesse-Maremne firefighters. A total of 14 firefighters and six emergency vehicles were dispatched to the scene. Unfortunately, one victim died instantly, while the other was left in critical condition and required immediate medical attention.
The accident prompted an immediate halt to train services on the Dax-Bayonne line, which remained suspended until 5:25 PM. During this time, emergency services arranged for the evacuation of the passengers by bus before allowing the TER train, carrying around twenty passengers , to resume its journey. The train conductor was interviewed by investigators, along with several witnesses who were in vehicles at the crossing as well as nearby tourists enjoying a day out.
Investigation Underway
One of the victims, identified as a woman in her forties, was thrown approximately ten meters from the tracks and died at the scene. The other victim is also believed to be a woman who was hospitalized in critical condition after being resuscitated for an extended period. According to initial reports, both victims were pedestrians near a parking area and a small commercial zone, only ten meters away from the level crossing when they approached the tracks just as the TER train was approaching. Investigators are currently considering two possible scenarios: a double suicide or a desperate attempt by one victim to dissuade the other from taking a drastic action.
A local resident recounted the harrowing moment, saying, “We heard the train’s horn, then a loud bang. I initially thought it was my dog, but then I saw people running along the tracks to help a woman who had been struck by the train.”
According to Jean-François Monet , the mayor of Bénesse-Maremne, the two women were still in the identification process as of Thursday evening. He added, “Investigators discovered a vehicle parked nearby, complete with a license plate and registration documents. If this is indeed the victims’ vehicle, they may be from Ondres or Labenne, possibly from the Basque coast, but we cannot confirm this yet.” He also reminisced about a previous incident several years ago at the Bénesse-Maremne station, stating, “On this straight stretch between Tyrosse and Bénesse-Maremne, which is close to a major roadway, trains accelerate rapidly, and unfortunately, this is not the first time there have been suicide attempts here. It’s devastating; as an elected official, it’s heart-wrenching to deliver such news to families, but we often don’t know the life stories of those involved.”
The public prosecutor of Dax, Benoît Fontaine, was expected to arrive at the scene but ultimately did not. As of now, the prosecution has not commented on the ongoing investigation, nor have the gendarmes, who along with forensic identification crews, conducted tests to confirm the identities of the victims.
Safety Concerns and Community Reactions
This tragic incident has ignited conversations about safety measures at level crossings and public awareness regarding the risks pedestrians face near train tracks. Local residents are raising concerns about the need for additional safety features, such as warning signals or barriers, particularly in areas that see regular pedestrian traffic. The stark reality of the rapid acceleration of trains in such locations is prompting calls for better safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
Community members are rallying together to support the families affected by this unfortunate event. Vigils and memorials are being organized, providing an opportunity for the community to come together to grieve and support one another. The incident has left an indelible mark on the local populace, with many expressing feelings of unease and sadness over the loss of life.
The intersection of mental health awareness and the risks associated with train travel has become a poignant topic in light of these events. Many are advocating for increased access to mental health resources, especially in regions where such tragic incidents have occurred more frequently. Advocates stress the importance of supportive community programs that can provide individuals with the help they may need during difficult times.
Though the investigation is ongoing, the emotional ripple effects of this incident will resonate within the community for a long time, reminding all of the fragile nature of life and the importance of community support in the face of tragedy.