Rally car goes off course in France, killing two children

An accident occurred during the Rallye National de Saint-Joseph in France, claiming the lives of two children, Le Parisien reported.

The tragedy happened on Oct. 26, when a 22-year-old driver lost control of his car and went off the course, hitting spectators. As a result, a nine-year-old girl and her 12-year-old brother were killed. Their father sustained multiple injuries.

Following the accident, the seventh stage of the rally was canceled.

According to the prosecutor, drug and alcohol tests for both the driver and co-driver showed no trace of any substances.

Spectators were reportedly standing in an area restricted for viewing, the Réunion Department administration said. However, according to police, organizers had not marked or reported any restricted zones or issued safety warning for that section of the stage.

The Rallye National de Saint-Joseph is held annually in late October on Réunion Island. This year’s course covered 198 kilometers, divided into seven special stages. The rally is known for its narrow roads, sharp turns, significant elevation changes and humid climate.