HUNTINGDON, UK — A horrific knife attack on a train traveling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross has left ten passengers injured, including one in life-threatening condition. The incident, which took place on the evening of October 31, 2025, has shocked local communities and train passengers across the UK. Authorities are now praising a heroic passenger whose brave actions helped protect others during the assault.
Heroic Passenger Saves Girl During Mass Stabbing on Doncaster to London Train
What Happened
The attack unfolded shortly after an LNER service departed from Peterborough station, when a man was seen wielding a large knife inside one of the train carriages. Witnesses described scenes of terror as passengers screamed and scrambled to escape, with some hiding in restrooms while others attempted to climb onto the seats to stay out of reach.
Emergency alarms were triggered, but the train continued until it reached Huntingdon Station, where armed police and paramedics were already waiting. Officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) boarded the train around 7:40 p.m. and arrested two men.
One suspect, a 32-year-old man from Peterborough, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody. The second, a 35-year-old man from London, was later released without charge after investigators confirmed he was not involved.
Who Was Involved and Background
The 32-year-old suspect, who reportedly boarded the train in Peterborough, is now the prime suspect in the ongoing investigation. According to Superintendent John Lovelace of the BTP, authorities currently have no evidence suggesting the attack was linked to terrorism, though counter-terrorism units initially supported the response as a precaution.
A major talking point has been the heroic act of a passenger who intervened during the chaos, shielding a young woman from the attacker. Eyewitnesses said the man “blocked the attack with his head,” sustaining injuries in the process but preventing further harm. His selflessness has since been hailed nationwide as a remarkable act of bravery that likely saved lives.
Public and Political Reactions
The violent attack has drawn swift condemnation from political leaders and an outpouring of sympathy from the public. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the event as “deeply worrying,” while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood offered her condolences to the victims and their families.
Local MP Ben Obese-Jecty praised the rapid response of emergency services, writing on X (formerly Twitter):
“My thoughts are with all the victims who were injured during this heinous attack. I would also like to thank our police and paramedics for their extraordinary professionalism.”
Across social media, residents of Huntingdon and Cambridgeshire have shared shock and grief. The hashtags #HuntingdonAttack and #TrainHero have been trending, with many calling for formal recognition of the brave passenger who risked his life to save others.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
British Transport Police continue to lead the investigation and have urged any witnesses or passengers with video footage to come forward. In the aftermath, authorities announced an increased police presence across major rail terminals, including London, Leeds, and Manchester, to reassure travelers.
The train operator London North Eastern Railway (LNER) confirmed that services on the East Coast Main Line were severely disrupted following the incident. Passengers are being advised to avoid travel until at least Monday, November 3, 2025, while investigations and safety checks continue.
LNER Managing Director David Horne expressed condolences to those affected, stating:
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this serious incident. Our thoughts are with everyone involved. I would like to thank the emergency services for their swift and professional response.”
What Happens Next
Huntingdon Station remains temporarily closed as investigators collect evidence and interview witnesses. Commuters are encouraged to check real-time updates from National Rail and LNER before traveling.
Officials stress that public safety remains the top priority, with enhanced security patrols expected across the UK’s railway network in the coming days.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.