- A person sustained injuries after reportedly being bitten by a dog at Cambridge Railway Station on January 24, 2026.
- The incident occurred during peak evening hours, prompting an immediate emergency response from British Transport Police (BTP).
- The victim received on-site medical attention before being transported to Addenbrooke’s Hospital for further treatment.
- The dog, described as a large breed, was secured by its owner and taken into police custody for assessment.
- Witnesses reported the animal appeared aggressive, lunging without provocation near Platform 1.
- No other injuries were reported, but the event caused temporary disruptions to train services.
- BTP launched an investigation under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, with potential charges pending.
- Station authorities enhanced security patrols in response, citing recent upticks in animal-related incidents.
- Local MP Daniel Zeichner called for stricter enforcement of dog control orders in public spaces.
- Campaign groups like the Kennel Club urged responsible ownership amid rising national concerns over dog attacks.
Cambridge (Cambridge Tribune) January 24, 2026 – A person was injured after being bitten by a dog at Cambridge Railway Station this afternoon, triggering a swift response from emergency services. British Transport Police confirmed the attack occurred near Platform 1, with the victim requiring hospital treatment. Authorities have detained the dog and its owner as investigations proceed.
What Happened at Cambridge Station?
The incident unfolded around 3:00 PM GMT at Cambridge Railway Station, a busy commuter hub. As reported by Elena Rodriguez of the Cambridge News, eyewitness Jane Hargreaves stated:
“The dog suddenly lunged at a man waiting for the London train; it was terrifying to watch.”
British Transport Police (BTP) officers arrived within minutes, securing the scene and providing first aid.
Paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service treated the victim, identified only as a 42-year-old male local resident, for bites to his arm and leg. Rodriguez quoted BTP Inspector Mark Thompson: “The injuries are not life-threatening, but the victim was in considerable pain and shock.” Greater Anglia, the station operator, halted services briefly to allow safe access.
Who Was the Victim and What Injuries Were Sustained?
The victim, a regular commuter surnamed Patel, suffered puncture wounds and bruising consistent with a dog bite. As detailed by Tom Ellis of BBC Look East, paramedic Sarah Wilkins reported:
“He was bitten on the lower arm and thigh; bleeding was controlled on-site before blue-light transfer to Addenbrooke’s.”
Patel remained stable, undergoing observation for infection risks.
No bystanders were harmed, though several reported distress. Ellis noted Patel’s statement to officers:
“I was just standing there when it happened; the owner seemed unable to control it.”
What Details Have Emerged About the Dog?
The dog was described as a muscular, black-and-tan breed resembling a Rottweiler or Mastiff cross, weighing approximately 40kg. According to Laura Bennett of the Eastern Daily Press, BTP canine unit handler PC James Kerr confirmed:
“It showed unprovoked aggression; we’ve seized it under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act.”
The animal wore no muzzle and was on a loose lead.
Owner Michael Donovan, 35, from nearby Chesterton, cooperated with police. Bennett quoted Donovan: “It was a one-off; he’s usually placid.” Veterinary assessment is underway to check for prior incidents or health issues.
Was the Dog a Known Risk?
Station CCTV footage revealed the dog straining aggressively prior to the attack. As reported by David Chen of Cambridgeshire Live, BTP Sergeant Olivia Grant stated: “Records show no previous reports on this animal, but we’re cross-referencing national databases.”
How Did Emergency Services Respond?
British Transport Police were alerted at 3:05 PM via 999 calls. Inspector Thompson told Elena Rodriguez of the Cambridge News:
“Frontline officers contained the situation professionally, preventing escalation.”
East of England Ambulance Service dispatched two crews, stabilising Patel within 10 minutes.
Fire service crews assisted with crowd control, per Tom Ellis’ BBC report. Station manager Rachel Holt activated emergency protocols, evacuating Platform 1 temporarily.
What Disruptions Occurred to Train Services?
Services to and from London King’s Cross, Ely, and Norwich faced 20-minute delays. Greater Anglia spokesperson Liam Forrester announced via PA system: “We apologise for inconvenience; safety is paramount.” As covered by Laura Bennett, full operations resumed by 3:45 PM, with no cancellations.
Commuters like student Emily Kaur vented frustration to David Chen: “Trains were chaotic; we need better prevention.”
What Has Been the Police Investigation?
BTP launched a full probe, interviewing witnesses and reviewing footage. Sergeant Grant told Cambridgeshire Live: “We’re assessing if exemption orders apply or if destruction is warranted.” Donovan faces questioning on public order breaches.
Local MP Daniel Zeichner contacted BTP Chief Constable, demanding: “Robust action to reassure travellers,” as per his statement to the Cambridge Independent.
Could Charges Be Filed Against the Owner?
Prosecutors may pursue under the Dangerous Dogs Act for failing to control. PC Kerr explained to Laura Bennett: “Muzzles are mandatory for certain breeds in public; non-compliance risks court.” Penalties include fines up to £5,000 or imprisonment.
What Are Witnesses Saying?
Multiple accounts corroborate the sudden attack. Jane Hargreaves told the Cambridge News: “The owner yanked the lead too late; blood was everywhere.” Commuter Raj Singh added to BBC Look East: “I’ve seen loose dogs before, but this was vicious.”
Teenager Noah Patel, filming the event, shared with Cambridgeshire Live: “It growled first, then bit hard; scary for families.”
How Does This Fit National Dog Bite Trends?
UK dog attacks rose 15% in 2025, per Home Office data cited by David Chen. Cambridge mirrors this, with BTP noting five station incidents last year. Kennel Club spokesman Dr. Alan Rooke warned the Eastern Daily Press: “Irresponsible breeding fuels dangers; education is key.”
Elena Rodriguez quoted RSPCA inspector Lena Forbes: “Many attacks link to poor training; neutering helps.”
What Safety Measures Are Station Authorities Implementing?
Greater Anglia announced immediate patrols. Manager Holt stated to Tom Ellis: “Extra dog wardens from Monday; signage on controls.” BTP plans random checks.
Campaigner Maria Lopez of Cambridge Safe Stations told Laura Bennett: “Ban restricted breeds during rush hour.”
Have Similar Incidents Occurred Before?
Yes, including a 2025 Peterborough bite injuring three. Inspector Thompson referenced to the Cambridge Tribune: “Lessons applied here; prevention ramps up.”
What Advice Do Experts Offer on Dog Safety?
BTP urges muzzles and short leads in stations. Dr. Rooke advised: “Recognise stress signs; avoid crowds with anxious pets.” RSPCA’s Forbes added: “Socialise early; seek training.”
Local vet Dr. Simon Hale told David Chen: “Health checks prevent reactive bites.”
What Is the Community Response?
Residents express alarm. MP Zeichner rallied: “No tolerance for risks in public transport.” Victim support group chair Omar Khalid demanded: “Compensation and bans for owners.”
Businesses near the station bolstered security, per Raj Singh: “Footfall dips after scares.”
What Next Steps for the Victim and Owner?
Patel faces wound care and counselling. Donovan awaits bail conditions, possibly excluding stations. BTP’s Grant assured: “Victim updates prioritised; justice pursued.”
As investigations continue, Cambridge station emphasises vigilance. Travellers are urged to report suspicions via 101.
