Huntingdon train stabbing hero discharged from hospital

A train worker who shielded passengers during a mass stabbing and was knifed in the process has been discharged from hospital.

Samir Zitouni, 48, was a member of the catering crew on the Doncaster to London King’s Cross Service on November 1, when the attack took place.

He was taken to hospital with stab wounds and was initially said to be in a critically but stable condition.

Eleven people in total were treated at hospital for injuries in the assault, which happened onboard the train as it was close to Huntingdon.

British Transport Police confirmed this evening Mr Zitouni has now been discharged from hospital and would continue his recovery at home.

‘A 48-year-old member of LNER rail staff has been discharged from hospital today (15 November) following the major incident at Huntingdon on 1 November,’ a spokesperson said.

‘Samir Zitouni had been in a critical condition having suffered multiple injuries, and thanks to the efforts of NHS medical staff he’s been able to be discharged from hospital today to continue his recovery at home.’

BTP also released a statement from his family, which read: ‘We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sam’s brave actions on the night of the attack.

‘While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family.’

There have been calls for Mr Zitouni, who has worked for LNER for more than 20 years, to receive an honour for his bravery.

Shadow Secretary of State Richard Holden MP has written to the Minister of State MP Darren Jones asking that he be recognized for his ‘acts of selfless and outstanding bravery’.

Restaurant worker Fernando Portilla, who is a neighbor of Mr Zitouni, described him ‘one of a kind’. 

‘He is such a nice man and has time for everyone,’ Mr Portilla told Metro.

‘He is the perfect neighbor. He always smiles and is obviously a very good family man. 

‘When I saw him on the news, I was very shocked as he had been badly hurt.

‘I’m not surprised by his actions, he is a very good-hearted person. He is a hero and an example for us all. He is a big part of the community here and has such a great spirit. He’s one of a kind. Always helping neighbors out.’ 

Anthony Williams, 32, has been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder.

He was remanded in custody at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on November 3 and is set to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1.

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