The suspect behind the triple knife killings in Nottingham has been confirmed as a former student at the University of Nottingham, according to the police. It has also been alleged that two attempts were made to run over people with a van during the incident. The suspect, born in Guinea-Bissau and settled in Nottingham as a child, is being held in custody following the 90-minute rampage that occurred on Tuesday.
The attacks began in the early hours of the morning, with two 19-year-old students from Nottingham University, Grace O’Malley-Kumar and Barnaby Webber, being stabbed in the street. The violence continued as 65-year-old Ian Coates was fatally stabbed, and his van was stolen and used to drive into pedestrians.
The University of Nottingham expressed devastation upon learning that the suspect was a former student. However, the police stated that they do not believe this connection explains the motive behind the attacks. The suspect, who is currently in custody, has had an extension granted for holding him, allowing detectives to continue their investigations.
Counter-terrorism officers are involved in the case, and electronic devices linked to the suspect, including a phone he was carrying at the time of his arrest, are being examined. Currently, there is no evidence suggesting an ideological motive.
The suspect is said to have a history of mental health issues and had previous interactions with the police. He arrived legally in the United Kingdom at a young age, settling in Nottingham after coming from Guinea-Bissau.
The University of Nottingham, while unable to comment on an ongoing investigation, remains focused on supporting the victims’ families, including the families of Barney and Grace, as well as the wider community affected by the tragedy.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman visited Nottingham to pay her respects by laying a floral wreath outside the Council House before an evening vigil. The police revealed that after stabbing the van owner, the suspect attempted to run over multiple pedestrians, resulting in serious and minor injuries. As officers were trailing the van during these incidents, the matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is currently assessing the referral.
The suspect was apprehended when the van stopped, and law enforcement used a Taser stun gun during the arrest. Investigations into the incident and the motives behind the attacks continue as the community mourns the lives lost and supports those affected by the tragic events.