Train Attack Horror: Anthony Williams Charged with 11 Attempted Murders in Britain
Peterborough, England — A terrifying incident aboard a high-speed train bound for London has left passengers traumatized and an entire nation shaken. The man accused of launching the violent knife attack has been identified as Anthony Williams, a 32-year-old resident of Peterborough, who now faces 11 counts of attempted murder and several related weapons offenses following his first court appearance at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
According to police, the rampage unfolded on Saturday morning, when Williams boarded a London-bound train from Peterborough Station. Witnesses describe an ordinary journey that turned to chaos in an instant as the suspect allegedly pulled a large knife from his belongings and began attacking passengers without warning. Panic erupted as travelers scrambled for safety, with some locking themselves in train bathrooms or fleeing through adjoining carriages while others tried to intervene.
Emergency services were called around 9:15 a.m., and the train made an emergency stop near St Neots, in Cambridgeshire, where officers from the British Transport Police (BTP), paramedics, and armed response units boarded the train. Authorities confirmed that 11 individuals sustained injuries, several of them serious but none believed to be life-threatening.
Victims ranged in age from their early twenties to late sixties, and they included both men and women traveling for work, leisure, or family visits. One victim, a 42-year-old woman who has not been publicly named, reportedly sustained multiple stab wounds to her arm and chest. Another, a university student returning to London after visiting home, suffered defensive injuries while trying to shield a fellow passenger. Many others received treatment for lacerations and shock at nearby hospitals in Huntingdon and Cambridge.
Officers subdued and arrested Anthony Williams at the scene without further injury. He was taken into custody, where detectives say he has remained largely uncooperative. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) confirmed that Williams faces 11 charges of attempted murder, possession of a bladed article, and intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He did not enter a plea during Monday’s brief court hearing, speaking only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address. The magistrate ordered that Williams remain in custody and be transferred to Crown Court later this month, where he will face a formal arraignment.
Detectives are still working to uncover a motive behind the rampage. At this stage, authorities say there is no indication of terrorism, and the attack appears to have been carried out by Williams acting alone. Investigators have searched his Peterborough home, seizing computers, clothing, and a collection of knives as potential evidence.
British Transport Police Chief Superintendent Sarah White praised passengers and staff for their quick thinking during the attack, stating, “This was an incredibly fast-moving and chaotic incident. The bravery and composure of train staff and members of the public helped save lives.” She added that police presence on trains across the network has been increased “to reassure the traveling public.”
The train operator, LNER (London North Eastern Railway), expressed deep sorrow for those affected and confirmed that full counseling support has been offered to both passengers and staff who witnessed the event.
As the investigation continues, the United Kingdom finds itself grappling once again with questions about public safety and mental health. Many are calling for stronger security measures aboard intercity trains, while others emphasize the need for early intervention and support systems for individuals who may be at risk of violent behavior.
For the 11 victims, recovery will take time — not only from their physical wounds but from the trauma of surviving a sudden, senseless act of violence. As Anthony Williams remains behind bars awaiting trial, the case stands as one of the most disturbing and high-profile incidents to strike Britain’s rail network in recent memory.
Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses, asking anyone who was on the train or has footage from the incident to contact British Transport Police.