A 32-year-old man, Anthony Williams, has been charged with 11 counts of attempted murder after a series of violent knife attacks, including a mass stabbing on an LNER train traveling from Doncaster to London on November 1, 2025. Authorities say the attacks may be connected to other violent incidents in Cambridgeshire and London that same day, sparking a major nationwide investigation.
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What Happened
On the night of November 1, 2025, Anthony Williams allegedly launched a brutal knife attack aboard an LNER high-speed train bound for London. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as Williams used a large kitchen knife to stab multiple passengers.
According to British Transport Police, the incident left 13 people injured, including eight hospitalized victims. Quick-thinking passengers and train staff managed to raise the emergency alarm, prompting the driver to divert the train to Huntingdon, where officers and paramedics quickly responded.
One train staff member, who sustained serious injuries while tackling the suspect, has been widely praised as a hero for his bravery in preventing further bloodshed.
Authorities also linked Williams to a knife assault earlier that day at London’s Pontoon Dock DLR station, where a victim sustained facial injuries. Investigators are now examining whether these incidents — along with other knife attacks in the region — were part of a connected spree.
Who Is Anthony Williams?
Background of the Case
Anthony Williams, 32, appeared before Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on November 3, where he faced 11 charges of attempted murder and several related offenses. Prosecutors also accused him of attacking a police officer during his arrest, resulting in a broken nose.
Williams is reportedly of no fixed address and was not previously known to counter-terrorism or security services. Investigators are now exploring his background to determine what led to this violent series of events and whether he acted alone or was influenced by extremist ideology.
Due to the severity of the charges, the court denied bail, with prosecutors calling Williams “an ongoing danger to the public and to transport networks.”
Ongoing Investigation and Case Details
The investigation, led by British Transport Police, is focusing on whether the train stabbings are linked to several other knife-related incidents in Cambridgeshire, including:
- The fatal stabbing of a 14-year-old boy in Peterborough earlier that day.
- A knife attack at a local barber shop nearby.
Authorities are working to piece together a timeline of Williams’ movements, gathering CCTV footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to uncover the motive behind the spree.
Officials described the case as one of the most serious acts of random violence in recent years on Britain’s rail network.
Public and Social Media Reactions
News of the mass stabbing has left communities in shock. Tributes have poured in for the victims and praise for the quick response of passengers and railway staff.
On social media, users expressed condolences and outrage over the recurring issue of knife crime in public spaces. Many called for tighter security measures on public transport and stronger laws to deter repeat offenders.
One viral post read:
“The bravery of the LNER staff saved lives. But it’s heartbreaking that such horror can unfold on a train ride home.”
Public sentiment has also focused on the need for mental health evaluations and social support systems to prevent such violent incidents before they occur.
Government Response and What Happens Next
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood addressed Parliament following the attack, vowing to strengthen public safety measures and review existing knife crime policies. She praised the heroism of the LNER staff, stating, “Today, he is, and always will be, a hero.”
Williams remains in custody and is expected to appear for a custody hearing on December 1, 2025, at Cambridge Crown Court.
Investigators continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information related to the attacks to contact British Transport Police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to determine the motive behind the spree and whether it was premeditated or random in nature.
Closing Line
This story remains under active investigation and may be updated as new information becomes available.