A horrific stabbing attack on a train traveling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross has left multiple people injured, with ten victims hospitalized and one in life-threatening condition. The incident, which occurred on the evening of October 31, 2025, has shocked both local communities and passengers, with one heroic individual praised for intervening to protect others.
What Happened
The attack unfolded shortly after the LNER train departed from Peterborough station. Witnesses described the terrifying scene, where a man was seen wielding a large knife in one of the train carriages. Panic spread through the train as passengers tried to escape, with some hiding in toilets and others being “stamped” on as they rushed for safety. Emergency alarms were triggered, but the train could not stop until it reached Huntingdon, where police and emergency services were waiting.
Armed officers, backed by paramedics, arrived at Huntingdon station around 7:40 p.m. and arrested two individuals. One, a 32-year-old man from Peterborough, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody. The second individual, a 35-year-old man from London, was initially arrested but released after police determined he was not involved in the attack.
Who Was Involved and Background of the Case
The 32-year-old suspect, who boarded the train at Peterborough, is the only person now considered the main suspect in the attack. According to Superintendent John Loveless of British Transport Police (BTP), there is no indication that this was a terrorist incident, although counter-terrorism policing initially assisted in the investigation.
The heroic act of one passenger who blocked the attack with his head to protect a young woman has been widely praised. The man’s quick thinking and selflessness are believed to have saved many lives. Investigators are still piecing together the full sequence of events, and while the motive remains unclear, authorities are asking for any additional information from the public.
Public Reactions and Social Media Tributes
The shocking attack has prompted strong reactions from both the public and government officials. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as “deeply concerning,” while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her thoughts and prayers for the victims. Many on social media, particularly in Huntingdon, have expressed shock and solidarity with those affected, with one local MP, Ben Obese-Jecty, paying tribute to the emergency services and responders.
“My thoughts are with all those victims who were injured during this heinous attack,” he wrote on X. “I would like to pay tribute to the incredible and immediate response of the emergency services, particularly the Response Officers from Cambridgeshire Constabulary.”
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
British Transport Police continue to investigate the incident and have called on anyone with further information to come forward. In response to the attack, the police presence on the rail network will be heightened, with a “surge” of officers deployed at major terminals like London, Leeds, and Manchester.
The local train operator, London North Eastern Railway (LNER), has confirmed that train services have been severely disrupted due to the attack. Passengers are urged not to travel on the East Coast Mainline, with disruptions expected to last through Monday, November 3, 2025.
LNER Managing Director David Horne expressed his sorrow over the incident: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by this serious incident, and our thoughts are very much with everyone involved. I would like to thank the emergency services for their quick and professional response and the care they have provided to those injured.”
Next Steps and Ongoing Disruption
As authorities continue to investigate, the train station in Huntingdon remains closed, and passengers are advised to check for service updates. The increased police presence across the rail network aims to reassure the public and maintain safety in the wake of this tragedy.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
