Thalys Train Attack - August 22, 2015

On August 22, 2015, a significant security incident occurred on Thalys train 9364, traveling from Amsterdam to Paris. This event is notable for the quick and courageous actions of passengers that prevented a potential massacre.

The Incident

• Location: The attack took place on a high-speed Thalys train as it traveled through northern France, near the town of Arras.
• The Assailant: The gunman, later identified as Ayoub El Khazzani, was armed with an assault rifle, a Luger pistol, and a box cutter. He boarded the train in Brussels.
• The Attack: El Khazzani emerged from a restroom on the train, armed and ready to open fire on passengers. He managed to fire a single shot, injuring one passenger.

The Response

• Passenger Intervention: The attack was thwarted by the brave actions of several passengers:

  • Spencer Stone, a U.S. Air Force Airman, was the first to charge the gunman, tackling him and sustaining injuries in the process.
  • Alek Skarlatos, a member of the Oregon Army National Guard, assisted Stone in subduing the attacker.
  • Anthony Sadler, a college student and friend of Stone and Skarlatos, helped restrain the gunman.
  • Chris Norman, a British businessman, also joined in to help tie up the attacker.

• Aftermath: The passengers’ quick thinking and bravery prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life. The train was carrying over 500 passengers at the time.

Consequences and Recognition

• Injuries: Spencer Stone was injured during the struggle, sustaining cuts from the box cutter.
• Arrest: Ayoub El Khazzani was arrested by French police upon the train’s arrival in Arras.
• Recognition: The heroic passengers received widespread acclaim and were awarded several honors:
  • They were awarded the Legion of Honour, France’s highest decoration, by then-French President François Hollande.
  • They were also recognized by their respective countries and received various awards for their bravery.

Broader Impact

• Security Measures: The incident highlighted vulnerabilities in train security across Europe, leading to discussions about improving safety measures on public transportation.
• Cultural Impact: The event was later depicted in the film “The 15:17 to Paris,” directed by Clint Eastwood, which featured the actual heroes playing themselves.

The Thalys train attack of August 22, 2015, remains a powerful example of civilian courage and the impact of quick, decisive action in the face of danger.