British police announced on Sunday that a mass stabbing on a train heading to London is not being classified as a terrorist attack, as the suspects are considered to be black and Caribbean British.
On Saturday night, 11 individuals were hospitalized following a deadly stabbing incident on a train from Doncaster to King’s Cross. Initially, nine victims faced life-threatening injuries. However, by Sunday morning, only two remained in critical condition, while four had been released from the hospital, according to Sky News.
During a press conference, British Transport Police Superintendent John Loveless emphasized, “There is nothing at this stage to suggest that this was a terrorist incident. This is a British Transport Police investigation, and we will continue to work hard to quickly establish the full circumstances and motive that led to this incident.”
He detailed that the two suspects are a 32-year-old black British man and a 35-year-old British man of Caribbean descent, both born in the UK and currently in custody on suspicion of attempted murder.
A witness recounted the chaotic scene, describing travelers as being in a state of “pure panic,” with victims calling out for help. Initially, he thought it was perhaps a Halloween prank until he found himself blood-soaked and realizing the gravity of the situation.
Other witnesses reported acts of bravery, noting an elderly man who shielded a young girl from one of the attackers, despite sustaining injuries himself.
Defense Secretary John Healey remarked that preliminary findings indicate the attack was likely an “isolated incident.” He also mentioned that he and his wife had been on the same train hours before the attack and did not rule out the possibility of heightened security at the station.
“We need to wait for more facts to emerge. If broader policy conclusions are warranted, the government will address those,” he commented.
In response to the attack, Buckingham Palace released a statement from King Charles, conveying, “My wife and I were absolutely stunned and shocked to hear about the horrific knife attack that took place on a train in Cambridgeshire last night. Our hearts go out to all those affected and their loved ones. We are especially grateful to the emergency services for their response to this horrific incident.”
