Update on Huntingdon Train Attack: One Suspect Released, One Remains in Custody

Police have confirmed that only one individual remains in custody following the mass stabbing on a train near Huntingdon last night. The British Transport Police identified the primary suspect as a 32-year-old man from Peterborough. Meanwhile, a second man, a 35-year-old from London who was initially arrested at the scene, has been released with no further action.

Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy stated, “Our investigation is progressing rapidly, and we are confident no other suspects are involved. Specialist detectives are examining the background of the individual in custody and the circumstances leading up to the attack.”

The 35-year-old London man was initially detained after reports linked him to the incident, but inquiries have since cleared him of involvement.

Tragically, one person, a member of the LNER train staff who bravely attempted to stop the attacker, remains in critical condition in hospital. Five other casualties have since been discharged. Mr. Cundy praised the staff member’s “heroic” actions, confirming through CCTV footage that his intervention likely saved numerous lives.

The knife attack occurred shortly after the 6:25 pm LNER high-speed service departed Doncaster, arriving at Peterborough at 7:29 pm, before being diverted to Huntingdon where emergency services intervened. Eleven people were hospitalized following the incident.

British Transport Police confirmed the initial arrests included a 32-year-old Black British man and a 35-year-old British man of Caribbean descent. There is currently no evidence to classify the attack as a terrorist incident, according to BTP Superintendent John Loveless.

The attack has drawn strong reactions from national leaders. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the event as “deeply concerning,” while King Charles and the Queen expressed being “appalled and shocked.” In a statement, King Charles said, “Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with all those affected and their loved ones. We are especially grateful to the emergency services for their swift response to this terrible incident.”