Rail worker who protected passengers during mass stabbing on Huntingdon train discharged from hospital
Samir Zitouni was described as "incredibly brave" by the managing director of LNER after he was seriously injured trying to protect passengers during the attack.
Saturday 15 November 2025 18:16, UK
The train crew member who was seriously injured while trying to protect passengers during a mass stabbing has been discharged from hospital.
Samir Zitouni, 48, known as Sam, was working on board the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train from Doncaster to London when the attack began in Cambridgeshire on Saturday 1 November.
LNER said Mr Zitouni, who has worked for the firm for more than 20 years, was credited with helping to save multiple lives.
Mr Zitouni had been in a critical condition, having suffered multiple injuries in the incident, but was discharged on Saturday.
His family said: "We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sam's brave actions on the night of the attack.
"While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family."
Earlier this month, LNER said he has been a "valued member" of staff for over 20 years, working on board as a customer experience host.
David Horne, managing director at LNER, said: "In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him.
"His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery."
The attack is understood to have started shortly after the train left Peterborough, with passengers pulling the emergency alarms on the LNER service.
Read more: What we know about knife attack on busy train
Train driver Andrew Johnson, who served in the Royal Navy for 17 years, contacted a signaller and requested an unscheduled stop at Huntingdon station.
Eleven people were treated in hospital after the mass stabbing - nine were initially reported as having life-threatening injuries.
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Anthony Williams, 32, was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates' Court on 3 November, charged with 10 counts of attempted murder over the incident.
He will appear at Cambridge Crown Court on 1 December.