Heroic Train Worker Discharged After Violent Attack
A dedicated train crew member who suffered serious injuries while protecting passengers during a mass stabbing incident has been released from hospital, according to British Transport Police. Samir Zitouni, known affectionately as Sam to colleagues and friends, is now continuing his recovery at home following the traumatic events of November 1st.
The Huntingdon Train Attack
The violent incident occurred aboard a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) high-speed service travelling from Doncaster to London. Samir, who serves as a customer experience host primarily responsible for onboard catering, found himself at the centre of the attack that unfolded shortly after the train departed Peterborough station.
According to railway authorities, the 48-year-old employee with over two decades of service played a crucial role in safeguarding passengers during the mass stabbing in Huntingdon. LNER officials have credited Zitouni with helping to save multiple lives as passengers came under threat during the terrifying ordeal.
Recovery and Family Response
British Transport Police confirmed that Zitouni had been in critical condition after sustaining multiple injuries during the attack. In their official statement, the force acknowledged: "Samir Zitouni had been in a critical condition having suffered multiple injuries, and thanks to the efforts of NHS medical staff he's been able to be discharged from hospital today."
The Zitouni family expressed their gratitude for the public support while emphasising the challenges ahead. In their statement, they 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."
Other Victims and Legal Proceedings
The attack resulted in eleven people requiring hospital treatment for their injuries. Among those injured were Jonathan Gjoshe, a 22-year-old footballer from Scunthorpe United who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and Stephen Crean, 61, who suffered stab wounds.
The alleged perpetrator, Anthony Williams, 32, of Langford Road, Peterborough, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates' Court on November 3rd. He faces serious charges including:
- Ten counts of attempted murder
- Two counts of possession of a bladed article
- One count of actual bodily harm
One of the attempted murder charges relates to a separate incident at a London station. Williams has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1st.
The railway community continues to rally around Samir Zitouni and his family as he embarks on the next phase of his recovery journey at home, celebrating his bravery while acknowledging the difficult road to full recovery that lies ahead.
