Train attack hero whose bravery saved numerous lives named for first time
The LNER railway worker who 'demonstrated bravery beyond measure' during a knife attack on a train bound for the UK capital has now been pictured.
Samir Zitouni, who is known as Sam, has been hailed as a hero after he courageously confronted the suspect during the bloody rampage on Saturday (1 November).
The customer experience host, 48, was among the ten victims who were rushed to hospital over the weekend in wake of the terrifying incident onboard the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train from Doncaster to King's Cross.
Anthony Williams appeared in court on Monday (3 November) and was charged with 10 counts of attempted murder, one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of possession of a bladed article.
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The 32-year-old, from Peterborough, was remanded in custody and will appear at Cambridge Crown Court on 1 December.
Police are now also investigating whether Williams could possibly be connected to three separate violent incidents which took place prior to the train attack, reports say.
In wake of the train attack, six people have now been discharged from hospital and four remain in a stable condition - however, although stable, Samir is currently still critically unwell, the British Transport Police (BTP) said.
The LNER employee sustained serious injuries during the stabbing spree on Saturday after he bravely 'stepped forward to protect those around him'.
Samir, who has worked for the transport firm for more than 20 years, has been celebrated by his employer for 'acting with such courage that evening'.
LNER managing director David Horne said: "In a moment of crisis, Sam did not hesitate as he stepped forward to protect those around him.
"His actions were incredibly brave, and we are so proud of him, and of all our colleagues who acted with such courage that evening.
"Our thoughts and prayers remain with Sam and his family. We will continue to support them and wish him a full and speedy recovery."
The 'valued member' of LNER staff is a customer experience host, a role which largely involves providing onboard catering for commuters.
Samir's loved ones also thanked the public for the 'outpouring of love and kindness' they have received in the last few days, saying they had been 'deeply touched'.
"The care provided by the hospital and the support from his colleagues at LNER has been incredible," a short statement said.
"We are immensely proud of Sam and his courage," Samir's family added. "The police called him a hero on Saturday evening, but to us - he’s always been a hero."
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is of the same opinion, as she said: "Sam went to work on Saturday morning to do his job. He left a hero.
"His remarkable quick thinking and selfless action saved lives and he has demonstrated bravery beyond measure. I want to send my very best wishes to him and his family."
BTP Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy also dubbed Samir's actions as 'nothing short of heroic', saying he 'undoubtedly saved people's lives'.
"This was a horrific attack that has had a wide impact," he said previously.
"My thoughts and those of everyone in British Transport Police are with those injured and their families - especially the brave member of rail staff whose family are being supported by specialist officers."
Passengers who described scenes of 'pure panic' on the London-bound train have also praised the bravery of a man who 'blocked' the attacker from stabbing a young girl.
Footie fan Stephen Crean, 61, has also spoke about how he sustained several stab wounds after incredibly confronting the knife-wielding attacker armed with only his clenched fists.
Olivia Burke