Huntingdon, UK on November 1, 2025: Police respond after a knife attack on a train. PHOTO: Toby Shepheard / Parsons Media / Eyevine / Profimedia
Samir Zitouni, 48, is in a critical condition after trying to protect passengers during Saturday's knife attack on an LNER train traveling between Doncaster and London King's Cross, Sky News said on Tuesday, announcing that the identity of the man considered a hero had been revealed.
The “extraordinary courage” of the LNER employee who intervened on the train during Saturday's knife attack has been praised by his company.
Samir Zitouni, also known as Sam, was fighting for his life on Monday night after trying to stop the knife-wielding attacker who targeted passengers on the crowded train.
He was injured while trying to protect the lives of passengers during Saturday's 6.25pm local time attack on the LNER train traveling the Doncaster to London King's Cross route.
British Transport Police (BTP) deputy chief constable Stuart Cundy said CCTV footage from the train showed the man's actions “were heroic and undoubtedly saved people's lives”.
The train operator said he has been a “valued member” of its staff for more than 20 years, working on board as a host to improve the customer experience.
David Horne, managing director at the LNER, said: “In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate to step in to protect those around him. His actions were incredibly brave and we are very proud of him and all our colleagues who acted with such courage that night. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish them a full and speedy recovery.”
His family also sent a message thanking those who had shown them the “overwhelming support” they had received and called Sam a “hero”.
“We have been deeply moved by the outpouring of love and kindness shown to Sam and the many well wishes for his recovery. The care provided by the hospital and the support of his colleagues at the LNER have been incredible. We are extremely proud of Sam and his bravery. The police called him a hero on Saturday night, but to us he has always been a hero,” the man's family said.
Police investigation
A man, Anthony Williams, 32, of no fixed abode, has been charged with 11 offences, including attempted murder, over Saturday's knife attack and an earlier attack at an east London station.
British Transport Police said Williams was charged with attempted murder and possession of a weapon in connection with an incident in the early hours of November 1 on a train operated by the Docklands Light Railway.
A victim suffered facial injuries after being attacked with a knife on a train at Pontoon Dock station, police added.
The suspect, later identified as Williams, had left the scene before police arrived.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said Cambridgeshire Police were investigating whether the same man had committed “other offences” in the past.
Officers are currently carrying out an investigation into the incidents on Friday and Saturday.
Williams was remanded in custody on Monday when he appeared at Peterborough Magistrates' Court.
