A mass stabbing on a high-speed train traveling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross has left two people in life-threatening condition. The attack, which took place on the evening of October 31, 2025, shocked passengers and led to swift police action. Authorities have since confirmed the arrest of two individuals and the ongoing investigation into the motives behind the violent incident.
What Happened?
The attack occurred shortly after the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train departed from Peterborough station. British Transport Police (BTP) were alerted at 7:42 p.m. by multiple calls reporting stabbings on board the train. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one man seen brandishing a large knife. As panic spread, passengers sought refuge, with some hiding in toilets to escape the violence.
The train made an emergency stop at Huntingdon station, where armed police officers from Cambridgeshire Police boarded the train and arrested two men within eight minutes of receiving the 999 calls.
Who Was Arrested?
The two men arrested at Huntingdon station are both British nationals. A 32-year-old man and a 35-year-old man were taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder. BTP confirmed that both men were born in the UK; the 32-year-old is Black, while the 35-year-old is of Caribbean descent. Both suspects remain in custody as police continue to investigate the incident.
Who Was Attacked?
Ten people were taken to hospital following the attack, with one additional person attending the hospital independently. Two of the victims remain in a life-threatening condition, while four others, who sustained life-changing injuries, have since been discharged. Authorities have not released any further details regarding the identities of the victims or the extent of their injuries.
What Was the Motivation for the Attack?
At this stage, police have ruled out terrorism as a motive for the attack. Supt John Loveless of BTP confirmed that there is “nothing to suggest this is a terrorist incident.” The investigation is ongoing, with police working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the violent confrontation. Counter-terrorism policing had initially assisted in the investigation but has since stepped back as the focus shifts to understanding the cause of the attack.
Are Train Services Affected?
The mass stabbing has caused significant disruption to train services along the East Coast Mainline, with LNER advising passengers not to travel unless absolutely necessary. Disruptions are expected to continue until Monday, November 3, 2025, with services between London King’s Cross and Lincoln, Doncaster, Leeds, Bradford Forster Square, and Harrogate affected. Passengers have been encouraged to defer travel where possible.
Public and Official Reactions
The incident has prompted widespread concern, with numerous public figures expressing their thoughts and sympathies. The King and Queen of the United Kingdom issued a statement expressing their horror at the attack, sending their condolences to the victims and their families.
“My wife and I were truly appalled and shocked to hear of the dreadful knife attack that took place on board a train in Cambridgeshire last night. Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with all those affected, and their loved ones,” the statement read.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned the attack, describing it as “deeply concerning” and thanking the emergency services for their swift response.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the bravery of passengers and staff on board the train, confirming that the attack was not being treated as terrorism.
David Horne, managing director of LNER, expressed his shock and sadness over the incident, saying, “We are deeply shocked and saddened by this serious incident. Our thoughts are very much with everyone involved, and we thank the emergency services for their quick and professional response.”
What Happens Next?
As of now, the investigation is ongoing. British Transport Police are asking anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed anything to come forward. The authorities are working to piece together the circumstances and motivations behind the stabbing.
LNER is continuing to assist with the investigation and provide support to passengers affected by the disruption. The public is advised to follow updates from the police and train operators regarding service resumption and further developments in the case.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
