Police have detained a 32-year-old British man on Sunday for alleged attempted murder following a mass stabbing incident that caused panic on a train heading to London, resulting in 11 people being hospitalized. Another man initially held as a suspect was released without charges as authorities confirmed his non-involvement. The stabbings are not being treated as a terrorist act, with no disclosed motive or details on the type of weapon used.
Among the injured, six individuals remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition. A railway staff member, hailed for his heroic actions in preventing further harm, is among those hospitalized. Five others have been discharged.
The arrests occurred promptly, eight minutes after emergency calls were made from the train, where chaos and panic were reported, with passengers seeking refuge. British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless expressed shock at the incident, extending sympathies to the victims and their families.
The incident unfolded on a train en route from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross station, prompting an emergency stop in Huntingdon. Passengers disembarked, some visibly injured, as a police presence awaited. The initiation of a national code word for potential terror attacks was later rescinded as investigations continued.
Witnesses described a scene of horror as a man started attacking passengers, prompting shouts of warning and calls to flee. The swift response and bravery of both passengers and staff were commended by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. The royal family also conveyed their condolences to those affected by the tragic event.
London North Eastern Railway confirmed the incident on its train, leading to disruptions on the affected route. Increased police visibility was assured by British Transport Police to reassure passengers in the aftermath of the attack.