King Charles holds reception for survivors of Huntingdon train attack

Fintan Starkey

By Fintan Starkey


Published: 17/12/2025

- 21:24

The King sent a message to the survivors at the time

King Charles held a special reception at Buckingham Palace for the survivors of the Huntingdon train attack on Wednesday.

Charles was pictured shaking hands with Samir Zitouni, who was seriously injured as he stepped in to protect passengers during the stabbing attack on the Doncaster to London train service.


Mr Zitouni, known as Sam to friends, attended the reception with his wife Eleni Sakkoulei and other members of the public and railway staff who showed exceptional bravery during the attack in Cambridgeshire on November 1.

The King was also pictured meeting LNER train driver Andrew Johnson, who previously served in the Royal Navy, and his partner Abbie Northfield.

King Charles

King Charles hosted a special reception for survivors of the Huntingdon train attack on Wednesday

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Anthony Williams, 32, was charged with 10 counts of attempted murder over the Huntingdon incident.

He is also charged with possession of a bladed article on November 1, and several other offences in the hours preceding the attack on the train.

He remains in custody pending further court hearings scheduled for next year.

At the time of the attack, King Charles penned an emotional letter as he offered those affected his "deepest sympathy".

King Charles

King Charles met with the LNER train driver who diverted the train during the incident

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Charles said: “My wife and I were truly appalled and shocked to hear of the dreadful knife attack that took place on board a train in Cambridgeshire last night.

"Our deepest sympathy and thoughts are with all those affected, and their loved ones.

"We are particularly grateful to the emergency services for their response to this awful incident."

The Prince and Princess of Wales also offered a message of support to the survivors.

King Charles

King Charles took the time to speak with friends and family of those involved in the attack

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A Kensington Palace spokesman said: "Our thoughts are with the families and friends of all those impacted by the horrific events last night near Huntingdon.

"We also express our thoughts with the first responders and train staff who acted swiftly."

Mr Williams has not entered a plea hearing, and on December 1, failed to make an appearance at Cambridge Crown Court after refusing to join a video link.

Proceedings in the case are due to resume on January 28, 2026.

A provisional trial date has been set for June 22, 2026.