POLICE UPDATE: Huntingdon Train Attacks

A message from His Majesty King Charles III following the stabbing in Huntington, Cambridgeshire.

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British Transport Police (BTP) have released new details earlier today following a major stabbing incident onboard an LNER train which forced an emergency stop at Huntingdon Railway Station on Saturday evening (1 November).

Officers were called at 7:42pm to reports of multiple people being attacked on the 18:25 Doncaster to London King’s Cross service. Armed officers arrived rapidly, and two men were arrested within eight minutes of the first 999 call.

Arrests and investigation

Police confirmed a 32-year-old man, described as a Black British national, and a 35-year-old man of Caribbean descent — both born in the UK — were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. They remain in custody this morning for questioning.

BTP declared a major incident last night, with Counter Terrorism Policing providing initial support. However, detectives now say there is nothing to suggest the attack was terrorism-related.

“At this early stage it would not be appropriate to speculate on the cause of the incident,” BTP said.

The force continues to investigate the full circumstances and potential motivation.

Victims and hospital treatment

Ten people were taken to hospital by ambulance, while an eleventh later self-presented. Police initially believed nine had life-threatening injuries.

Following treatment:

• Four patients have now been discharged
• Two remain in a life-threatening condition

Rapid response

It follows tributes from local officials overnight, who highlighted how quickly officers reached the train while the suspect was still armed.

Passengers described scenes of panic as emergency services boarded the carriage.

Stations status and policing presence

Huntingdon Station remains closed, although trains are now passing through without stopping. Passengers should expect:

• cancellations,
• short-notice alterations,
• and a high-visibility police presence at stations and on services today.

BTP say officers are deployed to reassure the public and respond to concerns.

Travel disruption

National Rail is advising passengers not to travel on LNER services between London King’s Cross and Peterborough today. Thameslink services serving St Neots are running, although not stopping at Huntingdon. The operator has confirmed the station will remain closed until the end of the day tomorrow.

Appeal for information

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is urged to contact BTP by texting 61016 quoting reference 663 of 1 November.