The normally routine journey of passengers aboard the 6.25pm LNER service from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross on November 1 turned into a scene of terror when a man allegedly went on a knife rampage.
The shocking events unfolded just hours after another stabbing at a Docklands Light Railway station, leaving the nation grappling with the scale of the violence.
The Suspect Appears in Court
Anthony Williams, 32, from Peterborough, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court facing 11 counts of attempted murder.
Dressed in a grey tracksuit, Williams said very little, only confirming his name and that he has no fixed address.
District Judge Kenneth Sheraton remanded him in custody, with a further hearing set for December 1 at Cambridge Crown Court. No application for bail was made.
Violent Morning at Pontoon Dock
The day began violently in east London when a passenger was stabbed at Pontoon Dock DLR station shortly after 12.45am.
The victim sustained facial injuries after being attacked with a knife, marking the start of a terrifying series of events.
Terror on the LNER Azuma Train
Hours later, Williams allegedly boarded the LNER Azuma at Peterborough, brandishing a knife as he moved through the carriages.
Passengers scrambled for safety, barricading themselves in toilets and behind the shutters of the onboard shop.
Eyewitnesses described the attacker shouting, “the Devil’s not going to win,” as he lunged at those trying to flee.
Brave Acts by Passengers and Staff
Passengers and train staff acted heroically to protect each other.
Veteran driver Andrew Johnson coordinated with Network Rail to make an emergency stop at Huntingdon station, allowing railway staff to evacuate people quickly.
The suspect continued to pursue passengers across the tracks but was eventually subdued by police.
Victims and Their Courage
Nine people were left fighting for their lives after the attack, while five have since been discharged.
Among the most seriously injured was an LNER café worker who had intervened to protect fellow passengers.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander praised his bravery, calling him a hero.
A Nottingham Forest fan, Stephen Crean, also confronted the attacker to shield children and other passengers, sustaining injuries in the process.
His courage has been widely celebrated online, with friends describing him as “one of the gentlest souls” who acted selflessly.
Police Response and Investigation
The British Transport Police responded swiftly, initially using the codeword “Plato” to indicate a marauding terror attack.
However, authorities later confirmed that terrorism was not suspected. Williams had no known links to MI5 or counter-terrorism services.
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy emphasized that the investigation continues, including reviewing CCTV and exploring possible additional offences.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses described the scene as “horrific,” with passengers covered in blood and scrambling for their lives.
Misidentifications occurred in the chaos, including a 35-year-old man who was tasered by police but later released with no action taken.
LNER and Government Reaction
LNER chief David Horne described the company as “deeply shocked and saddened” by the events.
Government officials and law enforcement agencies are continuing to support victims and review evidence as they prepare for further proceedings against Williams.