LNER staff member praised as ‘incredibly brave’ for protecting passengers
Samir Zitouni, 48, has worked for London North Eastern Railway (LNER) for more than 20 years
Last updated 4th Nov 2025
A member of staff who was seriously injured after the mass stabbing on board a train in Cambridgeshire on Saturday has been praised for his "incredibly brave" actions to protect passengers.
Samir Zitouni, 48, who has worked for London North Eastern Railway (LNER) for more than 20 years, remains in hospital following the attacks.
"Did not hesitate"
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."
"Immensely proud"
His family said in a statement released through LNER: "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."
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the "brave action" of those responding to the mass stabbing on a train on Friday has "saved countless lives".
In the Commons, he said: "I want to put on record in this House my own tribute to the police, the first responders, and in particular, to the heroic actions of both the driver and members of staff on board the Doncaster to London train, where such a vile and horrific attack took place this weekend.
"We all share in the revulsion of this shocking incident, but there's no doubt that their collective action, their brave action, saved countless lives, and I know the whole country is grateful for that."
Anthony Williams, 32, has appeared at Peterborough Magistrates' Court charged with 10 counts of attempted murder after several people were stabbed on an LNER train from Doncaster to London.
He is also charged with one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of possession of a bladed article.