The nation has been moved by the courage of a rail worker who faced grave danger during the Huntingdon train stabbing on Saturday night.
Samir Zitouni, 48, who has dedicated over 20 years to London North Eastern Railway (LNER), was among 11 people injured in the shocking mass stabbing.
For the first time, images of Mr. Zitouni recovering in hospital have emerged, highlighting the man behind the heroic actions that evening.
Stepping Forward in a Moment of Crisis
In the midst of chaos aboard the train, Mr. Zitouni acted without hesitation. David Horne, managing director of LNER, praised his colleague for his “incredible bravery,” noting that Sam stepped in to protect passengers when danger struck.
“In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him,” Horne said.
“His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him and all our colleagues who acted with 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.”
Family Celebrates His Courage
Through a statement released by LNER, Mr. Zitouni’s family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming public support.
“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 family said.
“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.”
National Leaders Honor His Actions
The bravery of train staff, including Mr. Zitouni, has not gone unnoticed. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer thanked the staff for putting themselves in danger to save “countless lives.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also paid tribute, emphasizing that Sam went to work as usual that morning but left as a hero.
“I know the British Transport Police have reviewed CCTV footage from what happened, and he literally put himself in harm’s way,” Alexander said.
“There will be people who are alive today because of his actions.
He went to work on Saturday morning to do his job and he left work a hero.”
The Attack and Legal Proceedings
During the attack, passengers scrambled through carriages, seeking safety by barricading themselves in toilets and behind shutters in the buffet car.
The incident left 13 casualties, with five still hospitalized.
On Monday, Anthony Williams, 32, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court charged with 11 counts of attempted murder related to the train attack and a prior DLR station incident.
He also faces charges of possessing a bladed article and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Williams was remanded in custody, with a hearing scheduled at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1.