Man Charged After Mass Stabbing on LNER Train Near Peterborough

A mass stabbing onboard a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train shortly after it departed Peterborough in early November 2025 left eleven passengers injured and triggered a rapid emergency response across Cambridgeshire. The suspect, identified as Anthony Williams, 32, has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder. Police have confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terrorism, and the investigation now focuses on determining Williams’s motive.

The attack began unexpectedly inside one of the train’s carriages during the journey toward London. Witnesses say the situation escalated quickly, prompting passengers to move away while others attempted to intervene. One LNER staff member and at least one passenger tried to stop the attacker, sustaining injuries in the process. One of the victims remains in critical condition after stepping in to help protect other travelers.

Train crew immediately alerted emergency services and worked to move passengers to safer areas of the train. Their actions, along with the intervention of passengers, helped limit further harm before authorities arrived.

Emergency Response and Arrest

The train was diverted to Huntingdon station, where armed officers boarded and arrested the suspect within minutes of the emergency call. Medical crews were positioned at the station to begin treatment as soon as the train stopped. Eleven injured passengers were taken to hospital, where they received care for stab wounds of varying severity.

British Transport Police later confirmed that the suspect remains in custody while officers gather further evidence, conduct interviews, and review CCTV footage from multiple carriages. Investigators continue to appeal for witness accounts, noting that even brief observations could contribute to a clearer understanding of the incident.

Terrorism Ruled Out

Following initial background checks and investigative review, police determined that the attack was not linked to terrorism. Although the motive remains unclear, officers say there is no evidence of wider risk to the public. Authorities are urging the public to avoid speculation as legal proceedings and psychological assessments continue.

Passenger and Staff Actions Praised

Accounts from the scene highlight coordinated efforts by both passengers and railway staff. Several individuals helped move people away from danger, provided first aid using onboard supplies, and contacted emergency services. LNER issued a statement expressing concern for those injured and extending appreciation to staff and travelers who responded with “remarkable calm and courage under extremely difficult circumstances.”

British Transport Police echoed this sentiment, stating that the actions of individuals who intervened directly “helped prevent further harm” and likely saved lives.

Renewed Focus on Rail Safety and Knife Crime

The incident has intensified public discussion around knife crime and safety on UK rail networks. While violent incidents on trains remain statistically rare, the enclosed layout of carriages makes such attacks difficult to escape and challenging to contain quickly.

In response, British Transport Police have increased patrols at major stations and on selected rail services, particularly those running between Peterborough, Cambridge, and London. Officers emphasized that the heightened presence is both a reassurance measure and a visible deterrent.

Government representatives and public safety groups have expressed sympathy for the victims and called for continued action to address knife-related violence. Proposals being discussed include expanded community intervention programs, improved mental health support pathways, and further restrictions on the carrying of bladed weapons.

Investigation Continues

The investigation remains ongoing, and the case will proceed through the courts as evidence is reviewed. Police have encouraged anyone who was on the train and has not yet shared information to come forward. Passenger welfare teams and trauma support services have also been made available to those affected.

Rail services continue to operate normally. Authorities advise passengers to remain aware of their surroundings and to report concerning behavior through the Railway Guardian app, British Transport Police text hotline, or station staff.

This incident is expected to continue shaping conversations on public safety, transportation security procedures, and the broader national response to knife crime in the months ahead.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happened on the LNER train near Peterborough?
A mass stabbing occurred onboard an LNER train shortly after it departed Peterborough in early November 2025. Eleven passengers were injured, and the train was diverted to Huntingdon where police arrested the suspect.

2. How many people were injured in the LNER train stabbing?
A total of eleven passengers were taken to hospital. One person remains in critical condition after attempting to intervene during the attack.

3. Who is the suspect in the LNER train stabbing incident?
The suspect has been identified as Anthony Williams, 32. He has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder.

4. Was the LNER train stabbing a terrorist attack?
No. British Transport Police confirmed that the incident is not being treated as terrorism after early investigative checks.

5. Where did the suspect get arrested?
The train was diverted to Huntingdon station, where armed police boarded and arrested the suspect within minutes of the emergency call.

6. What caused the stabbing on the train?
The motive has not yet been determined. Police are continuing to review evidence and psychological assessments.

7. Did anyone try to stop the attacker?
Yes. A member of LNER staff and several passengers intervened to help protect others, with one person suffering serious injuries during the effort.

8. How are UK rail services responding to the incident?
British Transport Police have increased patrols at major stations and selected rail routes to reassure passengers and strengthen visible security.

9. Are trains still safe to travel on after the incident?
Yes. Officials emphasize that incidents of this kind are rare and that there is no ongoing threat to passengers. Rail services continue to operate as normal.

10. What steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents?
Authorities are reviewing safety protocols, staff training procedures, and public awareness systems, while broader discussions continue regarding knife crime prevention and mental health support.