Broyes 2000, intense light and car engine failure

Summary

In January 2000, a motorist driving through Broyes (Marne) experienced an extremely intense light entering through the car roof. The engine and radio cut out instantly, though the ignition remained on. Seconds later everything returned to normal. Gendarmes who arrived at the scene found only a starry sky and routine air traffic, with no sign of anomalous activity.

A similar incident had occurred the previous December in Sommesous, where another driver's engine failed after a whitish light appeared. Investigators noted the possible influence of popular culture — particularly the X-Files series — on both witnesses' perceptions. Both cases were filed as having insufficient information.