A British man, 32, is being questioned by the police on Sunday for suspected attempted murder in connection with a mass stabbing incident that occurred on a London-bound train, resulting in 11 individuals being hospitalized. Another man, aged 35, who was initially arrested as a suspect, has been released without any charges as the authorities have determined he was not involved. While the stabbings are not being treated as a terrorist act, the police have not revealed the motive behind the attack or the type of weapon used.
As of Sunday, six individuals remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition. This individual is a railway staff member who bravely intervened to stop the attack, saving numerous lives. Five other injured individuals have already been discharged from the hospital. The arrests were made just eight minutes after the initial emergency calls were made at 7:42 p.m. on Saturday from within the train, where passengers described scenes of chaos and panic, with some seeking refuge in the washroom.
The train made an emergency stop in Huntingdon, a town approximately 120 kilometers north of London, where bloodied and disoriented passengers disembarked as a significant police presence awaited them. British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless, speaking at the scene in Huntingdon, confirmed that there is no indication that the incident is linked to terrorism.
During the immediate response to the attack, authorities initiated “Plato,” the national code word used for potential terror attacks, but this was later revoked. Loveless emphasized that it is premature to speculate on the reasons behind the attack. The incident occurred on a train traveling from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross station, with witnesses recounting the terrifying moments onboard, including shouts of a person stabbing everyone.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood commended the exceptional bravery displayed by both passengers and staff on the train, some of whom put themselves at risk to shield others. The Royal Family also expressed their shock and sympathy for the victims of the attack. London North Eastern Railway (LNER), responsible for operating the East Coast Mainline services, confirmed the disruption on the route until Monday due to the incident.
British Transport Police have assured passengers of an increased police presence at stations and on trains to ensure safety and security.