CAMBRIDGESHIRE, 2 Nov, 2025
A routine Saturday evening rail journey turned into a scene of terror and mass casualty late last night, after a mass stabbing attack occurred on a London-bound train, resulting in at least ten people being hospitalised, nine with life-threatening injuries.
Two men have been arrested in connection with the horrific incident, which prompted a major emergency response at Huntingdon railway station, a market town a few miles northwest of Cambridge.
British Transport Police (BTP), which is leading the investigation, confirmed the incident was declared a “major incident” and that Counter Terrorism Policing are supporting efforts to establish the full circumstances and motive. The BTP stated, “Ten people have been taken to hospital with nine believed to have suffered life-threatening injuries.”
Panic and Bloodshed on LNER Service
The attack occurred on the 6:25 pm London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service travelling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross, shortly after it departed Peterborough station. The train was brought to a stop at Huntingdon station following reports to emergency services at 7:39 pm local time.
Witnesses onboard described scenes of utter panic and bloodshed. One passenger recalled a victim, “extremely bloodied,” running through the carriage shouting, “They’ve got a knife, I’ve been stabbed,” as people desperately tried to flee the assailant(s). Reports indicate passengers hid in bathrooms, and some were injured simply trying to get away as chaos erupted.
Armed officers from Cambridgeshire Constabulary and BTP swiftly descended upon Huntingdon station. Police confirmed two men were arrested at the scene. Eyewitness accounts suggest one of the suspects, reportedly seen on the platform wielding a large blade, was incapacitated with a Taser before being restrained.
Major Emergency Response Deployed
The East of England Ambulance Service mobilised a “large-scale response” to the scene, including numerous ambulances, tactical commanders, and critical care teams, with multiple patients transported to hospital. The sheer scale of the incident led to the brief activation of ‘Plato,’ the national code word used for a potential marauding terror attack, which was later stood down as police contained the threat and arrested the suspects.
The incident has caused major disruption on the East Coast Mainline, with LNER advising passengers not to travel and Huntingdon station remaining closed while forensic investigations are carried out.
Political Leaders Condemn ‘Appalling Incident’
The attack has drawn swift condemnation from political leaders. Prime Minister Keir Starmer took to social media, calling it an “appalling incident” and one that is “deeply concerning.” He extended his thanks to the emergency services for their rapid response and urged the public to follow police advice.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed deep sadness and urged the public and media to avoid speculation regarding the motive while the investigation is ongoing.
Chief Superintendent Chris Casey of the BTP stated that urgent enquiries are underway, but stressed that “At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the causes of the incident.”
Police are appealing for any passengers or members of the public who witnessed the attack or have relevant information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation. The focus remains on determining the motivation behind the brutal mass attack and ensuring all victims receive the necessary care.