Two men are now in police custody following a series of stabbings on a high-speed train in Cambridgeshire that left two passengers with life-threatening injuries. According to British Transport Police, a 32-year-old black British national and a 35-year-old Briton of Caribbean descent were arrested after the incident on Saturday night, which resulted in 11 people being hospitalized.
Authorities have stated there is no indication that this was a terrorist attack and are appealing to the public for any additional information. One of the suspects, reportedly wielding a large knife, is believed to have been subdued with a Taser by police at Huntingdon train station in eastern England. The train involved was the 6:25 pm service from Peterborough to London’s King’s Cross.
British Transport Police treated the event as a major incident, arresting two individuals after the train was diverted for an emergency stop at Huntingdon station.
Social media footage captured five officers wrestling a suspect to the ground as he appeared to shout, “Kill me, kill me.”
On Sunday, Superintendent John Loveless addressed reporters at Huntingdon station, explaining that police were called around 7:42 pm about multiple stabbings on the train. Armed officers and paramedics responded immediately, arresting two suspects within eight minutes of the emergency call. Both men remain in custody.
Eleven people were treated in the hospital, with two still in critical condition and four having been released. Initially, nine were thought to have life-threatening injuries, but after evaluation, only two remained in that state. Ten were transported by ambulance, and one person arrived at the hospital independently later that evening.
The LNER train had departed from Doncaster at 6:25 pm. Witnesses recounted panic about an hour into the journey as bloodied passengers ran through carriages warning of an attacker. Olly Foster, a passenger in coach H, initially wondered if it was a Halloween prank but soon realized the severity from people’s expressions. He described seeing bloodstains and a man with head and neck injuries who had been protecting a young woman; passengers used jackets to apply pressure to his wounds.
Police received the first distress calls at 7:39 pm, and the train made an unscheduled stop in Huntingdon at 7:50 pm. The incident was initially coded “Plato,” indicating a potential marauding terror attack, but this was later retracted.
Witnesses reported dozens of ambulances and police officers waiting on platform 2 to assist the injured and apprehend the suspects.
Defence Secretary John Healey described the stabbing as an “isolated attack” and urged the public to carry on with their daily lives and travel plans, based on early assessments.We will share further assessments and information with the public as soon as it becomes available.
In a statement from Buckingham Palace, King Charles expressed his and his wife’s horror and shock at the dreadful knife attack that occurred on a train in Cambridgeshire last night. They extended their deepest sympathy and thoughts to all those affected and their loved ones, and expressed particular gratitude to the emergency services for their response to the terrible event.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the courage of the train staff and passengers and confirmed that the attack is not being considered an act of terrorism. In a social media post, she shared her thoughts with the victims and their families, thanked the emergency services for their swift and professional response that saved lives, and acknowledged the bravery of those on board. She also noted that two British-born nationals have been arrested, the investigation is continuing, and she is receiving regular updates from the police.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander assured the public that there will be a visible police presence at stations and on trains to provide reassurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the reported mass stabbing incident on a train in Cambridgeshire designed to be clear concise and helpful
Basic Information The Event
1 What happened on the train in Cambridgeshire
A mass stabbing incident occurred on a train where multiple people were attacked
2 Where and when did this happen
The incident took place on a train in Cambridgeshire For the specific date time and station please refer to the latest official reports from Cambridgeshire Police
3 Were people hurt
Yes multiple people were injured in the stabbing
4 How serious are the injuries
The severity of the injuries varies For the most current information on the victims conditions check official statements from local hospitals or the police
5 Has anyone been arrested
Yes two men have been taken into police custody in connection with the incident
Details About the Investigation Response
6 What are the police doing now
The police are conducting a thorough investigation which includes questioning the two individuals in custody collecting evidence from the train and speaking to witnesses
7 What is the motive for the attack
The motive is currently unknown and is a key part of the active police investigation Authorities have not released any confirmed information about a motive yet
8 Is there an ongoing threat to the public
The police have made arrests and have stated they are not looking for any other suspects in relation to this specific incident However always follow the direct safety advice of local authorities
9 Was this a terrorist incident
Police have not officially designated the attack as terrorism Investigations are in the early stages and all potential motives are being explored
10 How can I help if I was a witness or have information
If you were on the train or have any information please contact Cambridgeshire Police directly via their nonemergency number or the dedicated incident line they have set up
Broader Context Safety
11 How common are incidents like this on public transport
Thankfully serious violent attacks on public transport in the UK are rare Security and safety are top priorities for transport operators and police
12 What should I do if I witness a violent incident on a train
Your safety is the priority If it is safe
