Further Statement from Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston
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As Police and Crime Commissioner, it is my job to hold the Chief Constable to account for the effectiveness of the Constabulary. I do this knowing that I cannot interfere in operational policing. The horrific events which unfolded on a train in Cambridgeshire on Saturday evening resulted in multiple casualties. My thoughts continue to be with the victims who experienced this terrifying attack, their family, their friends, and the wider community.
I would further want to commend the actions of so many brave individuals who responded to the events of Saturday evening in Huntingdon, including the heroic train staff, emergency services, medical teams at Addenbrooke’s hospital and all those behind the scenes, putting victims first while securing evidence.
There continues to be a live criminal investigation into what happened on Saturday night led by the British Transport Police.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary has provided updates on the events locally, including possible earlier sightings of the suspect and further offences which may be linked to the named suspect. As is standard practice in these cases, the Constabulary referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) who has now confirmed that it will not be investigating the Constabulary’s actions in the lead up to the event.
As a result of the IOPC decision, I have today formally asked the Chief Constable Simon Megicks to conduct a thorough review of the events which occurred prior to the tragic events of Saturday evening.
The outcome of this review will be reported through my holding to account meetings with the Chief Constable and made publicly available.
To be clear, the ongoing criminal investigation led by British Transport Police, along with ongoing support for the victims of these abhorrent crimes must be the priority, ensuring justice is served.
If you live in Cambridgeshire or Peterborough and have been impacted by this incident support is available from our local Victim and Witness Hub. Call 0800 781 6818 or visit Victim Services | Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.