Rail Worker Called Hero After Saving Passengers from Train Stabbing Attack

Samir Zitouni

Rail Worker Called Hero After Saving Passengers from Train Stabbing Attack

By Paul V. Young – TheNationWeek.Com | November 6, 2025

HUNTINGDON, Cambridgeshire – A rail worker is being lauded as a hero following his courageous actions during a mass stabbing on a train traveling from Doncaster to London King’s Cross on Saturday evening.

Samir Zitouni, 48, an employee of LNER, is credited with saving multiple lives by intervening in the attack.

Zitouni remains hospitalized in stable but “critically unwell” condition, according to British Transport Police.

Witnesses say he bravely shielded a young girl from the attacker, sustaining a severe head and neck wound in the process.

“In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him,” said David Horne, LNER managing director.

“His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.”

Zitouni’s family released a statement expressing their immense pride.

“The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us, he’s always been a hero,” they said. “We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of love and kindness shown to Sam, and by the many well-wishes for his recovery.”

The incident occurred on the 18:25 GMT LNER service shortly after it departed Peterborough.

Passengers reported that a man brandishing a knife began attacking people on board.

Authorities have charged Anthony Williams, 32, with 10 counts of attempted murder related to the train stabbing and one count of attempted murder in connection with a separate attack in London on the same day.

Peter McDonald, chairman of Cambridgeshire County Council, praised Zitouni’s “extraordinary bravery,” adding, “In a moment of great danger, Sam put the safety of others before his own. Thanks to his courage and presence of mind, lives were saved.”

Ten people injured in the attack were transported to Addenbrooke’s Hospital.

Seven have been discharged from the hospital, while four remain in stable condition.

British Transport Police are investigating potential links between the suspect and earlier knife-related incidents in Peterborough, including the stabbing of a 14-year-old boy and reports of a man carrying a knife at a barbershop.

Cambridgeshire Police are also conducting an internal review of events leading up to the train attack.