9 critically injured in mass stabbing on London-bound train

British Transport Police emergency responders on the platform by the train at Huntingdon station (Chris Radburn/PA) Chris Radburn

Nine people suffered life-threatening injuries in a mass stabbing on a train near Huntingdon on Saturday evening. British Transport Police arrested two men after armed officers boarded the London North Eastern Railway service at Huntingdon station. Counter-terrorism police are now supporting the investigation into what has been declared a major incident.

The attack occurred on the 6:25 PM service from Doncaster to London King's Cross, shortly after the train departed Peterborough station. Emergency services were called at 7:39 PM. Ten people were taken to hospital in total, with one suffering non-life-threatening injuries. No fatalities have been reported.

Witnesses described scenes of panic and violence. One passenger told Sky News: «They've got a knife, I've been stabbed.» Another witness told The Sun: «There was blood everywhere, it was a terrible scene, really violent. It was like something from a film. It didn't feel real and just sparked pure panic onboard.» Passengers reportedly hid in toilets as the attack unfolded.

Government Response

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the incident "deeply concerning" and thanked emergency services. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood urged the public to avoid speculation at this early stage, confirming that two suspects were immediately arrested and taken into custody.

Chief Superintendent Chris Casey of British Transport Police said: «This is a shocking incident and first and foremost my thoughts are with those who have been injured this evening and their families. We're conducting urgent enquiries to establish what has happened, and it could take some time before we are in a position to confirm anything further.»

The incident caused major disruption across the LNER route, with Huntingdon station closed and all lines blocked. LNER advised passengers not to travel, with disruption expected to continue. The A1307 road near Huntingdon town centre was also closed.

Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).