Chaos and terror unfolded aboard a Birmingham-bound train this afternoon as a knifeman launched a vicious attack while repeatedly shouting "Allahu Akbar", according to shaken witnesses.
The horrifying incident occurred on a train approaching Birmingham New Street station, sending passengers scrambling for safety as the attacker stabbed multiple people in what witnesses described as a frenzied assault.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Terror
One passenger aboard the train provided a chilling account to Birmingham Live, describing how the suspect shouted the religious phrase multiple times during the violent rampage. "He was shouting 'Allahu Akbar' repeatedly while attacking people," the witness revealed, painting a picture of the sheer terror that gripped the carriage.
Another passenger spoke of the moment they realised something was terribly wrong. "People started screaming and running through the carriages. We could see someone with a knife and everyone was trying to get away," they said.
Emergency Response and Arrest
Armed police and emergency services rushed to the scene following multiple 999 calls from terrified passengers. West Midlands Police confirmed they had arrested a man in connection with the incident and were treating it as a major investigation.
Paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service treated several casualties at the scene, with some victims suffering serious stab wounds. The exact number of injured remains unclear, but early reports suggest multiple people required hospital treatment.
Station Lockdown and Commuter Chaos
Birmingham New Street station was partially locked down as police secured the scene and began their investigation. Commuters faced significant disruption as trains were delayed or cancelled during the police operation.
Forensic teams could be seen boarding the train as detectives began the painstaking process of gathering evidence from what one officer described as a "complex and challenging crime scene."
Community Shock and Security Review
The attack has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many questioning security measures on public transport. Regular commuters expressed their horror at the violent incident occurring during what should have been a routine journey.
Counter-terrorism officials are understood to have been briefed on the incident, though police have yet to confirm whether they are leading the investigation. The motive behind the attack remains unclear as detectives continue their inquiries.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact West Midlands Police immediately as the investigation continues to unfold.
