A routine train ride from Peterborough to London turned into chaos on Saturday evening when a lone attacker began stabbing passengers, leaving 11 people hospitalized. Armed officers detained the 32-year-old suspect after the train made an emergency stop at Huntingdon, 129 kilometres north of the capital.
A swift police response
Armed officers tackled the assailant with a Taser and took him into custody minutes after the attack began. Another man, initially arrested, was released without charge. Authorities confirm there are no further suspects.
Heroic intervention
CCTV footage reviewed by detectives shows a train crew member confronting the attacker, a move described by police as "heroic" and likely instrumental in preventing further harm. The crew member remains in life-threatening condition.
No links to terrorism
Counterterrorism units were involved in the initial investigation, but Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy announced there is no evidence of a terrorist motive. Police recovered the knife from the scene and are now tracing the events leading up to the stabbings.
Context: rising knife crime
Knife offences in England and Wales have surged by 87 percent over the past decade. With 54,587 incidents recorded last year – a 2 percent increase from 2023 – Britain ranks among Europe's highest for knife-related violence.
Eyewitness accounts
Passenger Olly Foster recalled to the BBC how blood covered his hand and the train seats as he tried to stay safe. Another witness told Sky News they saw the suspect waving a large knife before police deployed a Taser.
Leadership reactions
Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the attack an "appalling incident" and said authorities are working to support victims and their families. King Charles expressed that he was "truly appalled and shocked," while Interior Minister Shabana Mahmood urged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.
Reference(s):
Police: UK train stabbings carried out by lone attacker, not terrorism
cgtn.com
