The LNER staff member who was seriously injured in a mass stabbing on board a packed train has been named as ‘heroic’ Samir Zitouni.
The 48-year-old, who is known as Sam, was left fighting for his life after a man allegedly attacked staff and passengers on a train from Doncaster to King’s Cross on Saturday.
Sam, who has worked for the train operator for 20 years, helped save multiple lives with British Transport Police describing him as ‘nothing short of heroic’.
Passengers were trapped in carriages when the attack unfolded, with people trampling over each other and hiding in toilets to escape.
Sam’s family 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.
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‘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.’
He remains in a critical but stable condition.
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.’
Anthony Williams, 32, from Peterborough, has been charged with ten counts of attempted murder, one count of actual bodily harm and one count of possession of a bladed article in connection with the Huntingdon train incident.
He is also accused of one count of attempted murder and carrying a blade after a man was left with facial injuries following an attack on a DLR train at Pontoon Dock station shortly before 1am on Saturday.
Detectives are also reviewing whether Williams is linked to the stabbing of a 14-year-old boy in Peterborough town centre on Friday.
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