Hero Rail Worker Wakes After Confronting Train Attacker
A courageous rail worker who intervened during a mass stabbing on a train from Doncaster to London has regained consciousness and spoken with his wife for the first time since the horrific incident. Samir Zitouni, 48, from southeast London, became one of eleven people injured during the violent attack that occurred last week aboard the 6.25pm LNER service to King's Cross.
The Moment of Courage
According to witnesses and police reports, Samir demonstrated extraordinary bravery when he grabbed a frying pan from the buffet carriage kitchen to confront the knifeman. His intervention occurred roughly halfway through the journey to the capital, providing crucial moments for other passengers to seek safety.
The train driver executed an emergency stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire, allowing armed police to storm the train and apprehend the suspect. While Samir's heroic actions undoubtedly prevented further casualties, he sustained serious injuries during the confrontation and has been receiving treatment at a Cambridge hospital ever since.
Road to Recovery
In a significant development for his recovery, Samir regained consciousness on Thursday and his condition has now been described as stable. The positive news was shared by his colleague Gemma Royce on a GoFundMe page established to support his family during this challenging time.
"His wife has shared the wonderful news that Sam woke up briefly yesterday, and she was able to speak with him for a short time," Royce revealed. "This is a truly positive step forward, though there is still a long journey ahead in his recovery."
The fundraising campaign has seen an overwhelming response from the public, with approximately £38,000 raised from more than 1,700 donors. Many contributors have praised Samir for his remarkable courage and unwavering spirit in the face of danger.
Community Support and Police Recognition
Neighbours in Peckham have described Samir as a beloved community member known for his constant smiling and helpful nature. Fernando Portilla, a local restaurant worker, expressed little surprise at Samir's heroic actions.
"I'm not surprised by his actions, he is a very good-hearted person," Portilla told reporters. "He is a hero and an example for us all. He is a big part of the community here and has such a great spirit. He's one of a kind. Always helping neighbours out."
Police authorities have officially recognised the significance of Samir's intervention. After reviewing onboard CCTV footage, investigators confirmed that his actions were "nothing short of heroic and undoubtedly saved many people's lives."
Anthony Williams, 32, of no fixed abode, has been charged with multiple offences including ten counts of attempted murder relating to the train incident, plus additional charges connected to other alleged attacks in London.
