Brave Train Staff Member Receives Life-Threatening Injuries During Mass Stabbing Attack on Express Train
A courageous railway staff member who intervened to protect passengers during a mass stabbing attack on a express train has sustained critical wounds, authorities confirmed on Sunday.
Details of the Terrifying Incident
Surveillance video reportedly shows the employee trying to halt the assailant as the train journeyed between Peterborough and Huntingdon in the county. Bystanders described a terrifying 14-minute duration after the train departed Peterborough, with bloodied passengers fleeing through compartments.
The suspect, a 32-year-old citizen from Peterborough, remains in detention for questioning. Authorities announced a significant incident on the 6:25 pm service from Peterborough to King's Cross in central London.
Crisis Reaction and Consequences
The incident on Saturday night resulted in 11 people being treated in medical facilities after the train made an unscheduled stop at the station in Huntingdon. Several individuals have since been released from hospital.
A witness filmed the suspect brandishing a large knife and being shot with a Taser as he confronted officers on the platform. He was reportedly heard yelling, "Kill me, end my life."
âThis was a horrific attack that has had a wide impact. We are thinking of the victims and their families â especially the courageous employee of rail staff whose relatives are being supported by trained personnel,â stated a high-ranking police officer.
Union Reaction and Appeals for Action
Rail unions were quick to praise employees and demand more action. A union leader stated he would be âseeking immediate meetings with authorities, rail employers and police to ensure that we have the strongest possible assistance, resources and effective protocols in operationâ.
A different association leader encouraged the rail company and government âto act swiftly to review security, to support the affected employees, and to ensure nothing like this occurs againâ.
Driver Praised for Rapid Action
The train driver who halted the train at Huntingdon was described as being âdeeply affectedâ but âgoodâ, and has been praised by association officials for doing âexactly the right thingâ.
âThe driver did not halt the train in the center of two stops where itâs clearly difficult for the first responders to access, but he carried on going until he arrived to Huntingdon, where the response was almost waiting,â explained a association representative.
Additional Information
Authorities said they received the first emergency reports at 7:39 pm, and the train was compelled to make an unplanned stop in Huntingdon at 7:50 pm.
An witness described initially wondering if the event was a Halloween joke, but soon understood from individuals' faces that it was serious.
Authorities have confirmed there is no evidence to indicate the event was a terrorist incident and have requested the community to come forward with any additional details.
Rail operations on the impacted line are expected to experience delays until the following day, with travelers recommended to postpone their travel where feasible.
Individuals with details that could help the inquiry are encouraged to reach authorities by texting a specific number with a case code.