BTP Clears Second Man in Huntingdon Train Assault: LNER Hero in Critical Condition After Saving Lives

A harrowing mass stabbing unfolded on an LNER train bound for London King's Cross on 1 November 2025, as a knifeman rampaged through carriages, injuring 11 passengers in an indiscriminate attack. British Transport Police (BTP) swiftly arrested two men, but cleared the second on 2 November. The probe is now focused on a lone 32-year-old suspect from Peterborough. The Huntingdon train stabbing has dominated headlines across the UK, with renewed scrutiny on rail safety.

As the LNER worker who intervened fights for his life in hospital, his selfless actions—captured on CCTV—are being hailed nationwide for averting greater tragedy in this shocking knife attack.

The Frantic Onboard Chaos: Blades and Panic

The assault erupted at around 7.39 pm on 1 November 2025, shortly after the 6.25 pm Doncaster-to-London service departed Peterborough station. Passengers recounted the horror in vivid detail: a black-clad attacker wielding a blade surged through carriages, stabbing at random and yelling 'the devil is not going to win' as travellers shielded loved ones.

Thanks to the quick thinking of an ex-Navy train driver, the train was diverted and halted at Huntingdon using a 125mph emergency brake. Emergency services arrived at the scene by 8 pm. Eleven people were hospitalised, with nine initially in life-threatening condition. By 2 November, five had been discharged, though trauma lingers for survivors and their families.

Eyewitnesses attempted to defend themselves with Jack Daniel's bottles, underscoring the helplessness onboard. Nottingham Forest fans among passengers administered first aid, using scarves to bind wounds amid the pandemonium. The Cambridgeshire stabbing has ignited debates on rail safety, with calls for mandatory knife detectors, though government officials cite cost concerns.

Heroic Intervention: LNER Staff's Life-Saving Stand

Amid the frenzy, one LNER crew member tackled the assailant head-on, sustaining severe head wounds while shielding passengers. BTP, reviewing onboard CCTV, described his actions as 'nothing short of heroic' and said he 'undoubtedly saved many people's lives,' according to statements released on 2 November 2025.

Eyewitness Olly Foster recalled: 'There was a girl... the guy actually tried to stab her - and one of the older guys who was an absolute hero blocked it with his head.' The man sustained a gash to his neck and head, as other passengers used jackets to stem the bleeding. Wren Chambers added: 'There was a girl next to me... She said the man on the floor stepped in front of her and then got stabbed in the neck.'

Thomas McLachlan said: 'I will say there were definitely many heroes on that day... He took that injury to the face out of protection for her - that's some real selflessness, right there.' These brave interventions bought vital time during the attack.

The Daily Mail posted on X: 'Harrowing moment dazed and bloodied train passengers stumble onto the platform after frenzied knife attack - as eyewitness tells how 'hero of Huntingdon' man was stabbed in the HEAD as he shielded young girl.'

Police Probe Advances: Suspect Cleared, Motive Sought

On 2 November 2025, Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy announced: 'Our investigation is moving at pace and we are confident we are not looking for anyone else in connection to the incident.'

The 32-year-old black British national from Peterborough now faces attempted murder charges. A second man, a 35-year-old British national of Caribbean descent, was cleared: 'It was reported in good faith... following enquiries we can confirm that he was not involved.'

Specialist detectives are examining the suspect's background and events leading up to the attack. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the incident as 'deeply concerning.'

King Charles issued a statement: 'My wife and I were truly appalled and shocked to hear of the dreadful knife attack that took place on board a train in Cambridgeshire. Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with all those affected, and their loved ones. We are particularly grateful to the emergency services for their response to this awful incident.'

As counselling services support survivors, authorities continue to seek for further witnesses. The confirmation of a lone attacker has eased broader fears, but rail safety debates intensify.