BBC
On Thursday morning, a trainee bus driver drove a vehicle into the River Seine after colliding with a parked car and veering off the roadway, according to statements from officials.
The local transport authority informed the BBC that the driver, who was nearing the completion of her "practical learning," was involved in the incident in Juvisy-sur-Orge, located approximately 20 km (12 miles) south of Paris.
Subsequent drug and alcohol tests returned negative, as confirmed by a spokesperson; however, the specific cause of the incident remains under investigation.
L'Esson prefecture reported that all four passengers aboard the bus were successfully rescued from the water, with the operation involving over 90 firefighters, divers, and police personnel.
A representative for Île-de-France Mobilités indicated that the driver was under the supervision of a "lead driver" and had two passengers with her at the time of the incident. The organization’s president has initiated an internal investigation to review the events that transpired.
Local politician Claire Lejeune commented on the incident, noting that the bus fell into the Seine "with four people on board, including a trainee driver," and expressed gratitude to emergency services for their swift response.
The French river brigade was part of the collective response to the accident.
Juvisy-sur-Orge Mayor Lamia Bensara Reda stated that the driver had "lost control" of the vehicle near a station adjacent to the riverbank, "before plunging into the Seine and dragging a parked car" along with it.
"Everyone was quickly rescued and, thankfully, is safe and sound," she remarked.
As of 11:00 local time, the bus remained visible in the river.
French news agency AFP reported the deployment of several rescue boats, a drone, and helicopters as part of the comprehensive recovery effort.
L'Esson prefecture also indicated that the final count of any potential casualties was still being determined.
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