Police detained a 32-year-old British man on Sunday for questioning regarding an alleged attempted murder incident involving a mass stabbing on a train bound for London, resulting in the hospitalization of 11 individuals. Another man, aged 35, who was initially arrested, has been released without charges as investigators ruled out his involvement. Authorities have stated that the stabbings are not being treated as a terrorist act, but have not disclosed the potential motive or the type of weapon used.
Among the hospitalized individuals, six were still receiving medical care on Sunday, with one in critical condition. A railway staff member, hailed as a hero for attempting to halt the attack and saving lives, was among those injured. Five others who were wounded have already been discharged from the hospital.
The arrests occurred swiftly, just eight minutes after the initial emergency calls were made during the train incident at 7:42 p.m. on Saturday. Witnesses reported scenes of chaos and panic on the London-bound train, with passengers fleeing through carriages and seeking refuge in the washroom.
British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless expressed shock over the incident and extended sympathies to the victims and their families. The train made an emergency stop in Huntingdon, a town north of London, where passengers disembarked as armed police awaited.
Despite the gravity of the situation, authorities have clarified that the incident is not linked to terrorism. The train operator, London North Eastern Railway (LNER), acknowledged the disruption on the affected route and assured passengers of heightened police presence for their safety.
Passengers’ acts of bravery in protecting others have been commended, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praising their courage. King Charles III and Queen Camilla conveyed their condolences to the victims, denouncing the violent attack. The British Transport Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring passenger safety with increased security measures on trains and at stations.