UPDATE: A heroic rail worker remains in life-threatening condition after bravely intervening during a knife attack on a train in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. The shocking incident occurred on the 6:25 PM train from Doncaster to London King’s Cross on November 1, 2025, leaving 10 people hospitalized.
The British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed that the unnamed staff member attempted to stop the attacker and “undoubtedly saved people’s lives.” Authorities declared a major incident when the train came to a halt after passengers activated emergency alarms, alerting police at 7:42 PM.
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy stated, “This was a horrific attack that has had a wide impact. My thoughts are with those injured and their families, especially the brave member of rail staff whose family is being supported by specialist officers.”
As of now, the rail worker is the only individual still fighting for their life, while five others have already been discharged from the hospital. BTP reported that one of the two men arrested at the scene has been released without charges, while a 32-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of attempted murder.
Witnesses described the chaos as passengers sought refuge. One man, identified as Gavin, claimed he saw the suspect being tasered prior to arrest. Another witness, Olly Foster, recounted how a brave older man blocked the attacker from harming a younger girl, sustaining injuries himself in the process.
Forensic investigators are currently examining the knife recovered at the scene, which authorities believe was not linked to terrorism. The attack reportedly began shortly after the train departed from Peterborough.
David Horne, managing director of LNER, expressed profound shock, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, particularly our colleague who remains in critical condition.” He praised the emergency services for their swift response and commended the bravery of the train driver, identified as Andrew Johnson. Johnson, a veteran of the Royal Navy and Iraq War, has been acknowledged for his decision to continue to Huntingdon station, where emergency responders were ready.
The train station remains closed as investigations continue. Passengers are advised to defer travel on LNER routes until further notice, with significant delays expected across services to Lincoln, Leeds, Bradford, and Harrogate.
BTP urges anyone with information regarding the incident to text 61016 quoting reference 663 of 01/11/25. Further updates will follow as the situation develops.
