Huntingdon train attack hero Samir Zitouni discharged from hospital as family make plea to public
A train crewman who was seriously injured while protecting passengers during the Huntingdon stabbings has been discharged from hospital, according to British Transport Police.
Samir Zitouni, 48, was left fighting for his life after suffering multiple injuries in the major incident on a London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train from Doncaster to London on 1 November.
He was taken to hospital, where he remained until Saturday. In a statement, his family thanked the public for the “outstanding support” but said Mr Zitouni had a “significant recovery” ahead of him.
They said: “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public and touched by the kind words spoken about Sam’s brave actions on the night of the attack.
“While we are really happy to have him home, there is still a significant recovery process and we now want to be alone so we can care for him as a family.”
Mr Zitouni was hailed as a hero for potentially saving multiple lives on the train. LNER said he had worked at the firm as a customer experience provider for more than 20 years, which largely involved providing onboard catering.
Among the 11 patients injured during the attack, there was a person receiving treatment in the hospital.
A British Transport Police spokesman said: “A 48-year-old member of LNER rail staff was discharged from hospital today (15 November) following the major incident at Huntingdon on 1 November.
“Samir Zitouni was in a critical condition and suffered multiple injuries and thanks to the efforts of NHS medical staff he was able to be discharged from hospital today and continue his recovery at home.”
LNER chief executive David Horne previously paid tribute to Mr Zitouni, saying he “did not hesitate” to protect passengers during the “moment of crisis”.
He said: “Sam did not hesitate when he stepped forward to protect those around him in a moment of crisis. His actions were incredibly brave and we are proud of him and all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery.”
Police charged 32-year-old Anthony Williams with ten counts of attempted murder in connection with the incident. He was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on November 3 and is due to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1.
