A hero rail staff member who shielded passengers from a frenzied knife attack on a train in Huntingdon has been praised for ‘undoubtedly saving people’s lives’ as he remains in a critical condition.
The knife rampage happened on a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) Doncaster to London King’s Cross train on Saturday evening.
A 32-year-old man from Peterborough is now being treated as the only suspect.
One person remains in a ‘life-threatening condition’ following the attack and another 12 were taken to hospital last night.
Police confirmed the remaining casualty was a member of LNER rail staff who bravely tried to stop the attacker.
Detectives investigating the attack said ‘his actions were nothing short of heroic and undoubtedly saved many people’s lives’ after reviewing CCTV footage.
The 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody.
Police said the man boarded the train at Peterborough station.
Police on the platform at Huntingdon Station in Cambridgeshire last night following the attack
Last night passenger Olly Foster described the moment a young girl was saved by a ‘hero’ who shielded her from the knifeman.
He said: ‘A young girl was distraught as the attacker tried to stab her, but a hero of an older man got in the way taking a gash on his forehead and I think another on his neck.’
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said: ‘Our investigation is moving at pace and we are confident we are not looking for anyone else in connection to the incident.
‘As would be expected, specialist detectives are looking into the background of the suspect we have in custody and the events that led up to the attack.
‘This was a horrific attack that has had a wide impact. My thoughts and those of everyone in British Transport Police are with those injured and their families – especially the brave member of rail staff whose family are being supported by specialist officers.
‘Having viewed the CCTV from the train, the actions of the member of rail staff were nothing short of heroic and undoubtedly saved people’s lives.
‘My thanks to the public for their patience while we continue our investigation at Huntingdon station. We hope that we will be able to support GTR in reopening the station soon.
‘Anyone with information who hasn’t already spoken to police is asked to contact BTP by texting 61016 quoting reference 663 of 01/11/25.’
