Train company LNER 'extremely proud' of rail worker in critical condition after mass stabbing as family call him 'hero'

The "extraordinary bravery" of the LNER worker who intervened during the train mass stabbing attack on Saturday has been hailed by his company.

Samir Zitouni, 48, also known as Sam, was last night fighting for his life after trying to stop a knife attacker who targeted passengers on a busy train.

He was injured while trying to protect passengers during the mass stabbing on Saturday's 6.25pm LNER service from Doncaster to London King's Cross.

Deputy Chief Constable of British Transport Police (BTP), Stuart Cundy, said CCTV from the train showed the man's actions "were nothing short of heroic and undoubtedly saved people's lives".

The train operator 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."

His family also shared a message, thanking those who had shown the "overwhelming support" they have received and calling him a "hero".

They said: "We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of love and kindness shown to Sam, and by the many well wishes for his recovery.

"The care provided by the hospital and the support from his colleagues at LNER has been incredible. We are immensely proud of Sam and his courage. The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us - he's always been a hero."

Police investigation

A man, Anthony Williams, 32, of no fixed abode, has been charged with 11 counts of attempted murder over the mass stabbing and another attack earlier at an east London station.

British Transport Police (BTP) said Williams had been charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in connection with an incident on a Docklands Light Railway train in the early hours of 1 November.

A victim suffered facial injuries after being attacked with a knife on a train at Pontoon Dock station, the force added.

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The suspect, later identified as Williams, had left the location before police arrived.

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said police in Cambridgeshire were investigating if the same man committed "further offences" before.

The police are also investigating three other incidents which they believe are linked to the train attack and London stabbing.

The incidents, which took place on Friday and Saturday, are:

• 7.10pm, Friday: The stabbing of a 14-year-old boy in Peterborough city centre. The teenager was taken to hospital with minor injuries and has since been discharged

• Around 7.10pm, Friday: A man with a knife entered a barbers in the Fletton area of Peterborough. This was not reported to the police until two hours later

• 9.25am, Saturday: A man was seen with a knife again at the Fletton barbers. The police were called while the man was at the scene and officers arrived within 18 minutes but were unable to find the man.

Williams was remanded in custody on Monday when he appeared at Peterborough Magistrates' Court.

(c) Sky News 2025: Train company LNER 'extremely proud' of rail worker in critical condition