What We Know About Knife Attack on Busy Train

Key Highlights

  • A 32-year-old British man of Caribbean descent was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a knife attack on a London-bound train.
  • The incident occurred on the 6.25pm service from Doncaster to Kings Cross in London, leaving ten people injured and one staff member in critical condition.
  • Forensic officers recovered a knife at the scene, and armed police boarded the train within eight minutes of the first 999 call.
  • The attack led to a major response involving emergency services, with trains disrupted between Peterborough and Huntingdon.

Overview of the Incident

A severe incident unfolded on November 3, 2025, as a knife attack was reported on a London-bound train. The event occurred during the 6:25 pm service from Doncaster to Kings Cross in London, where passengers faced an alarming situation.

Initial Response and Emergency Services

At 7:42 pm, British Transport Police (BTP) received reports of multiple stabbings on board. By 7:50 pm, two suspects had been detained as armed police, paramedics, air ambulance, and transport police were deployed to the train.

The train made an unscheduled stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire, where forensic officers boarded to investigate. The emergency response was swift, with armed officers boarding within eight minutes of the first 999 call.

Victims and Injuries

Ten individuals were taken to hospitals following the attack, nine of whom initially suffered life-threatening injuries. Four were discharged after initial treatment, but five more were released later in the day. One LNER rail staff member remains critically injured as of Sunday evening.

Background and Context

The Huntingdon train stabbing incident sparked significant concern among passengers and authorities alike. The attack took place on a busy route, highlighting the vulnerability of public transport systems to such incidents. Local residents and commuters expressed shock and fear over the unfolding events.

Motivations and Investigation

While details about the suspect’s background are sparse, one 32-year-old British man of Caribbean descent remains in custody as a primary suspect. The incident is not being treated as a terror attack by police, but the investigation continues to examine potential motives.

Police Superintendent John Loveless stated that there was “nothing to suggest this is a terrorist incident” and emphasized that detectives are looking into the background of the suspect. Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy expressed confidence in their ongoing investigation, emphasizing the safety and well-being of passengers and staff.

Community Impact and Recovery

The Huntingdon station remained closed until Monday, with significant disruptions to train services between London King’s Cross and Peterborough. LNER issued a statement acknowledging the incident and its impact on commuters.

Local authorities and emergency services worked tirelessly to ensure passenger safety and provide necessary medical assistance. The heroic actions of the rail staff member who made an emergency stop at Huntingdon station were praised by officials, recognizing their crucial role in saving lives during the chaotic event.

Conclusion

The Huntingdon train stabbing incident on November 3, 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers passengers face on public transport. As the investigation continues, authorities aim to provide clarity and reassurance to the public while working towards preventing such incidents in the future.