Bus Collides with Train at Channel Tunnel, 19 Injured

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 16, 2026

A minibus carrying 18 passengers collided with a stationary freight train at the Eurotunnel vehicle loading platforms near Calais, injuring all aboard, with five sustaining serious wounds. The accident temporarily halted vehicle services for 90 minutes and prompted an ongoing investigation, though no fatalities were reported and passenger train operations were largely unaffected.

At least 19 people were injured in a collision between a minibus and a freight train near the French entrance of the Channel Tunnel on the evening of October 16. The incident occurred at approximately 7:27 p.m. local time at the Eurotunnel vehicle loading platforms in Coquelles, near Calais.

Authorities reported that the minibus struck the side of a stationary freight train as it was departing from the loading dock. The Pas-de-Calais prefect’s office confirmed that all 18 passengers and the driver of the minibus sustained injuries, though most were not life-threatening. However, reports indicated that five individuals suffered serious injuries, including head and leg wounds. The passengers, described as men of various nationalities, were reportedly lorry drivers preparing to travel through the tunnel. Officials have notified the relevant consulates.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene with ambulances and a helicopter equipped with a mobile intensive care unit to transport and treat the injured. The incident caused a temporary suspension of vehicle services through the Eurotunnel for about 90 minutes while responders attended to those affected.

Officials emphasized that no fatalities have been reported and that none of the injured were believed to be in immediate danger. The local sub-prefect, Agathe Cury, noted that this type of accident on the Eurotunnel loading platforms is unprecedented since the service began in 1994.

Eurotunnel and Eurostar representatives clarified that passenger train services were not directly impacted by the collision. While the last two Eurostar trains running between Paris Gare du Nord and London St Pancras on the evening of the incident were cancelled, the operator stated these cancellations were due to scheduled engineering work and unrelated to the accident. Eurostar confirmed all other services continued to operate as expected.

Investigations into the cause of the collision are underway. The minibus driver, who was among those injured, was expected to undergo testing for potential substances including alcohol and drugs as part of the inquiry.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide support to those affected.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.