British police have ruled out terrorism as a motive after 11 people were injured, two of them critically, in a stabbing attack on a train near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire on Saturday.
British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed that two men—a 32-year-old black British national and a 35-year-old British national of Caribbean descent—have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Police declared a major incident following the attack, which occurred on a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service. Ten victims were taken to hospital, while an eleventh later sought treatment independently. Early reports suggested nine people were in life-threatening condition, but officials later confirmed that four have since been discharged. Two victims remain in critical condition.
Superintendent John Loveless of the BTP said counter-terrorism officers initially assisted in the investigation, but it has since been confirmed there is “nothing to suggest that this is a terrorist incident.”
“This remains a British Transport Police investigation,” Loveless said. “We continue to work at pace to establish the full circumstances and motivations behind this attack. At this early stage, it would not be appropriate to speculate.”
Eyewitnesses described chaotic and frightening scenes aboard the train. Passenger Olly Foster told the BBC that people were shouting warnings as the attack unfolded. “Someone ran past saying someone was stabbing everyone. There was blood all over the seats,” he said. Foster recalled seeing an older man intervene to protect a young girl, suffering wounds to his head and neck in the process. Passengers used their clothing to stem the bleeding.
Footage posted on social media showed armed officers rushing to the train at Huntingdon station as multiple police and ambulance vehicles filled the car park.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla said they were “truly appalled and shocked” by the attack. “Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with those affected, and their loved ones,” the King said, thanking emergency responders for their swift action.
Defence Minister John Healey told Sky News that early indications suggested the assault was “an isolated incident.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the attack as “deeply concerning,” adding his gratitude to the emergency services.
LNER confirmed significant disruption to East Coast Mainline services between London King’s Cross and cities including Lincoln, Leeds, and Doncaster, with delays expected to continue into Sunday.
David Horne, LNER’s managing director, said the company was “deeply shocked and saddened” and that its priority was supporting those affected. “We thank the emergency services for their quick and professional response,” he said.
Local MP Ben Obese-Jecty called the event a “truly horrific incident,” while the Rail, Maritime and Transport union said it was “horrified” and urged patience as authorities investigate.
