Passengers Mistake London Train Stabbing for Halloween Prank: Details Revealed
A train journey from Doncaster to London became a nightmare when a knife attack left ten people injured. The assault occurred on a Saturday evening near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire. Nine of the victims suffered critical injuries, prompting a major incident declaration and a counter-terrorism investigation.
Details of the Incident
The attack took place shortly after the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service departed from Peterborough, en route to King’s Cross. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos as passengers screamed and sought protection. Many attempted to hide in toilets, fearing for their lives.
Eyewitness Accounts
- One passenger, Olly Foster, recalled initially mistaking the event for a Halloween prank.
- He reported witnessing blood on his hands as panic erupted around him.
- Others reported hearing shouts of “Run, run, there’s a guy literally stabbing everyone.”
Response and Arrests
The train made an emergency stop at Huntingdon station, where armed officers boarded to apprehend two suspects. British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed that ten individuals were transported to the hospital. Nine sustained injuries classified as life-threatening, while one had serious but non-critical wounds. Remarkably, there have been no fatalities reported.
Emergency Protocols Activated
Authorities briefly initiated “Code Plato,” the emergency response for potential terror events. However, this protocol was later deactivated as the situation stabilized. Counter-terrorism forces are collaborating with BTP to uncover the motive behind the attack. Chief Superintendent Chris Casey indicated that the investigation could take considerable time.
Ongoing Investigation
Forensic teams and police worked throughout the night at the site of the incident. Investigators in protective gear examined bloodied train carriages, as the area remained sealed off. Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his dismay over the “appalling” event, extending thoughts to the victims and their families.
Impact on Rail Services
In the aftermath, LNER cautioned passengers against traveling on the following Sunday due to significant disruptions along the East Coast Main Line.
Local officials, including Paul Bristow, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, referred to the incident as “horrendous,” reflecting the widespread alarm felt throughout the community.
