The 48-year-old rail employee is in critical condition after confronting an armed attacker, saving multiple passengers.
LONDON – A rail worker who sustained serious injuries while protecting passengers during a mass stabbing on a UK train has been named as Samir Zitouni.
Mr. Zitouni, 48, a Customer Experience Host for London North Eastern Railway (LNER), was officially identified Tuesday. He is being praised by police, colleagues, and government officials for his “heroic” actions that “undoubtedly saved many people’s lives” during the attack last Saturday.
The incident occurred on the 6:25 p.m. LNER service from Doncaster to London King’s Cross. Shortly after departing Peterborough, an attacker wielding a knife began assaulting passengers. Mr. Zitouni, a 20-year veteran of the railway, confronted the man, shielding passengers and sustaining grievous injuries in the process.
The train made an unscheduled emergency stop in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, where armed police met the service. Eleven people, including Mr. Zitouni, were hospitalized.
“In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him,” said David Horne, LNER’s Managing Director, in a statement. “His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him.”
Why This Matters for Rail Passengers
While this attack occurred in the United Kingdom, it underscores the universal concern for passenger and crew safety on all passenger rail networks.
Security protocols and emergency response training are critical components of operations for rail carriers globally, including Amtrak in the United States. This incident highlights the vital role of onboard staff in protecting travelers during an emergency.
“Sam went to work on Saturday morning to do his job. He left a hero,” said UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander. “His remarkable quick thinking and selfless action saved lives.”
What Happens Next
Mr. Zitouni remains in the hospital in critical but stable condition. In a statement, his family said, “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.”
British Transport Police have arrested a 32-year-old man, Anthony Williams, who has since been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder in relation to the train attack.