Algerian Who Saved British Passengers During Train Stabbing Praised by Authorities

British authorities praised Algerian-born railway worker Samir Zetouni (48) after he saved the lives of several passengers during a mass stabbing attack on a train traveling from Doncaster to London on Saturday evening.

The British Transport Police said Zetouni, who sustained serious injuries to his head and neck while confronting the attacker, remains in critical but stable condition in the hospital. His actions have been described as “heroic in every sense of the word.”

LNER, the train operating company, said Zetouni has worked with them for over 20 years.

The company’s CEO, David Horne, said: “In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate for a single moment to protect those around him. His actions were incredibly brave, and we are proud of him and all our colleagues who showed exceptional courage that night.”

He added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Samir and his family, and we will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery.”

In a statement, Zetouni’s family expressed immense pride in him, saying: “The police described him as a hero on Saturday evening, but to us, he has always been a hero.”

The family also said they were deeply moved by the messages of support and sympathy they received from the public and praised the care he is receiving in the hospital and the support from his colleagues.

According to eyewitnesses, Zetouni confronted the attacker and prevented him from stabbing a young girl, resulting in severe injuries to his head and neck.

British Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander told the BBC: “The courage Samir showed was truly remarkable. There are people alive today who would not be if it weren’t for his actions.”

The attack occurred on a train traveling from Doncaster in South Yorkshire to London King’s Cross station at 18:25 GMT.

Police reported that Anthony Williams (32) from Peterborough has been charged on Monday with 10 counts of attempted murder.

Ten people were taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridgeshire, with one more arriving later for treatment. Six of the injured have been discharged, while four remain in stable condition.

Passengers reported that one individual began randomly stabbing passengers after the train had departed.