An LNER employee who was seriously injured in a mass stabbing on a train in Cambridgeshire has been praised for his bravery in protecting passengers. Samir Zitouni, 48, who has worked for London North Eastern Railway for over 20 years, remains in hospital after the attack on Saturday evening.
Police reviewing CCTV footage described Zitouni's actions as 'nothing short of heroic and undoubtedly saved many people's lives'. He was one of 11 people treated in hospital after the incident on the high-speed train from Doncaster to London. Anthony Williams, 32, has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder.
Zitouni's family expressed pride in his courage, stating: 'The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us – he's always been a hero.' LNER managing director David Horne said Zitouni 'did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him'. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander added that Zitouni 'demonstrated bravery beyond measure'.
Among the injured was Scunthorpe United footballer Jonathan Gjoshe, 22, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Another victim, Stephen Crean, 61, reportedly confronted the attacker. As of Tuesday, four people remained in hospital, including Zitouni, who is in a stable but critical condition.
Cambridgeshire police are conducting an internal review after three knife incidents were reported in Peterborough in the 24 hours before the attack. The Independent Office for Police Conduct has decided not to investigate the police handling of those incidents.
