Morning Update: Ten Injured — Nine With Life-Threatening Injuries — After Attack on Train Near Huntingdon

A major investigation is continuing this morning after ten people were injured — nine with life-threatening injuries — during a stabbing attack on the 18:25 LNER train from Doncaster to London King’s Cross on Saturday evening (1 November).

The attack took place shortly after the train left Peterborough, forcing an emergency unscheduled stop at Huntingdon Railway Station. Police responded within minutes, with two individuals arrested at the scene. Several victims were taken to hospital following a large-scale ambulance and air ambulance response.

Police response

British Transport Police have confirmed to the BBC that officers responding to the incident declared “Plato” at one point during the operation. Plato is the national code word used when police and emergency services believe they may be dealing with a marauding terrorist attack.

Police say the declaration was later rescinded once further assessments were made.

Britsh Transport Police have now declared a major incident, and the investigation is being supported by counter-terrorism officers. At this stage, no motive has been confirmed.

Local MP: “Appalling and devastating”

Huntingdon MP Ben Obese-Jecty — who remained at the station into the early hours — said:

“This was an appalling and devastating attack. My thoughts are with all those victims who were injured during this heinous attack.”

He paid tribute to the rapid police response:

“Response Officers from Cambridgeshire Constabulary were first to arrive on the scene with the suspect still armed and at large.”

Train operator responds

LNER Managing Director David Horne said the operator was “deeply shocked and saddened”:

“Our thoughts are very much with everyone involved. I would like to thank the emergency services for their quick and professional response.”

He urged anyone with information to contact British Transport Police.

LNER services may be subject to short-notice changes today. Passengers are being advised not to travel on Sunday 2 November.

Paul Bristol Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough said this:

Travel disruption

National Rail Enquiries says major disruption is expected until the end of the day between London King’s Cross and Peterborough.

Thameslink services are running again this morning, although some stops remain cancelled. The 07:45 from Peterborough is operating, but its first stop will be St Neots at 08:07.

Police appeal

Anyone with information is urged to contact British Transport Police. Further updates are expected later today.