Algerian Railway Employee Hailed as Hero After Foiling Knife Attack on UK Train
By Houari A. – On November 1, 2025—a date that marks Revolution Day in Algeria—an ordinary man named Samir Zitouni performed an extraordinary act of bravery that captured the British public’s admiration. The 48-year-old employee of London North Eastern Railway (LNER) risked his life to save passengers during a knife attack on a train from Doncaster to London, preventing a potential massacre and becoming a national symbol of courage.
Roots of Courage
Born in Algeria, Samir Zitouni—known affectionately as “Sam” to his colleagues—was raised in a culture that values hospitality and solidarity. These principles guided him after he emigrated to the United Kingdom in his youth, where he integrated seamlessly into the country’s multicultural society through his professionalism and innate kindness, as noted by British media.
A married family man living quietly in Cambridgeshire, Zitouni is described by those who know him as a generous individual, always ready to help others and deeply connected to his heritage. These very qualities, they say, culminated in the heroic act that has since shaken the nation.
A Lifetime of Service
For over two decades, Zitouni served as a Customer Experience Host for LNER on the East Coast main line. British newspapers highlight how he personified the kindness and diligence required for a role involving constant public interaction. Colleagues remember his humor, punctuality, and unique ability to defuse tense situations with a calming smile. “Sam always knew how to find the right words to calm a situation,” a company train driver told local media.
The Day of the Attack
On that fateful November 1st, as the train traveled between Peterborough and Huntingdon, a man identified as Anthony Williams suddenly stood up, brandishing a knife and attacking passengers. Panic erupted instantly. It was then that Zitouni intervened without hesitation.
According to witness accounts and CCTV footage, he positioned himself between the assailant and several travelers, using his own body to shield a young girl. Despite sustaining serious injuries to his head and neck, he continued shouting instructions, guiding other passengers to safety in the rear carriages. His decisive actions allowed police to intervene before the situation escalated into a greater tragedy.
National Recognition and Recovery
After being rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospital for major surgery, Zitouni is now out of danger. Tributes have poured in from across the country. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised in Parliament “the exemplary courage of the railway staff who stood against danger to save lives,” while Transport Minister Heidi Alexander called him an “everyday hero.”
On social media, the hashtags #ThankYouSam and #RailwayHero have been shared millions of times. Online fundraising campaigns have gathered significant support for his family during his convalescence. For many, his selfless act represents the very best of multicultural Britain—a man who came from elsewhere becoming a protector for all.
H. A.