A 32-year-old man has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder following a mass stabbing attack on a train in Cambridgeshire that left nine people injured, one of them critically.
Multiple Charges Filed
The suspect, Anthony Williams from Peterborough, has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in connection with the attack on a Doncaster to London train on Saturday. Police also confirmed that he faces a separate attempted murder charge for an earlier incident in east London that same day.
According to British Transport Police (BTP), Williams allegedly attacked a victim at Pontoon Dock station on the Docklands Light Railway around 12:46 a.m., leaving the individual with serious facial injuries. Later that morning, Williams is accused of carrying out a stabbing spree aboard the intercity train, forcing it to make an emergency stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire.
He has also been charged with actual bodily harm in relation to an incident that took place in police custody after his arrest.
Police Investigation Expands
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy of the BTP said that detectives are examining “other possible linked offences” as part of their investigation, suggesting that Williams’ actions may be part of a wider pattern of violent behavior.
Cundy praised the swift response of both passengers and railway staff, highlighting the bravery of a crew member who sustained life-threatening injuries while attempting to intervene during the attack. “Their courage undoubtedly prevented further tragedy,” he said.
Heroic Response by Train Crew
Witnesses reported scenes of panic as armed officers boarded the train at Huntingdon after the unscheduled stop. The train’s driver has been commended for maintaining composure and bringing the train to a safe halt despite the chaos.
Nine passengers were seriously injured in the incident, with one — identified as a member of the train’s onboard crew — remaining in critical condition in hospital.
Broader Context
The shocking attack has renewed concerns about public transport safety in the UK, prompting calls for a review of onboard security measures. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive but have emphasized that there is no wider threat to the public.
Williams is expected to appear in court this week as investigations continue into both the Cambridgeshire and east London incidents.
