Knife Attack on Train Near Cambridge Leaves at Least Nine Critically Injured

Darwin, 02 November-

At least nine people were critically injured in a knife attack on a train near Cambridge on Saturday evening, according to police and local media reports. The injured are said to be fighting for their lives.

The BBC reported that the incident occurred on a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service traveling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross. The attack took place shortly after the train departed Peterborough station. Armed police responded swiftly, stopping the train at Huntingdon Station.

According to The Guardian, police have arrested two suspects in connection with the attack. Their identities have not yet been released.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the incident as “horrific” and urged the public to follow police advice.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), he said:

“The horrific incident on a train near Huntingdon is deeply concerning. My thoughts are with all those injured, and I thank the emergency services for their swift action. Please follow police guidance if you are in the area.”

The British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed that counterterrorism officers are assisting in the investigation but said it is too early to determine the motive behind the attack.
Chief Superintendent Chris Casey stated:

“We are conducting a fast-paced investigation, but it will take time to establish the full circumstances. At this stage, it would be inappropriate to speculate on the motive.”

Police received reports of the attack at 7:39 p.m., and armed units quickly arrived at the scene, stopping the train and detaining two individuals.
Videos circulating on social media show armed officers boarding the train.

The East of England Ambulance Service launched a “major response,” deploying multiple ambulances, tactical commanders, and hazardous area response teams.
A spokesperson said, “We have transported multiple patients to hospital.”

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as passengers fled through the carriages to escape the attacker.
One witness told Sky News:

“A passenger was walking through the train shouting, ‘They’ve got knives, I’ve been stabbed!’ He was covered in blood and almost collapsed before the train stopped.”

Police reportedly used a Taser to subdue one of the suspects, who was seen holding a large knife.

Initial witness accounts suggested between six and twelve people were injured. Authorities later confirmed at least nine victims, several in critical condition.

Huntingdon MP Ben Obese-Jecty praised the rapid response of emergency services, saying:

“I’ve never seen such a large-scale response before. Police, fire, and ambulance services worked together seamlessly.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her shock and urged the public not to speculate while the investigation is ongoing.
Opposition Home Affairs spokesperson Chris Philp called the incident “a brutal mass attack” and extended sympathy to all victims and emergency workers involved.

Both LNER and National Rail have confirmed severe disruption on the East Coast Main Line, with all lines through Huntingdon currently closed. LNER advised passengers not to travel and to postpone their journeys if possible.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary has appealed for witnesses and set up a dedicated helpline for anyone with information.