Ian Huntley Remains in Serious Condition Following Prison Assault
Durham Constabulary has confirmed that Soham murderer Ian Huntley remains seriously ill in hospital, three days after a violent attack by a fellow inmate at a maximum security prison. The force issued an update on Sunday afternoon, stating there had been no change to his condition overnight.
Details of the Violent Incident
The assault occurred last Thursday morning in a workshop at HMP Frankland in Durham. According to reports, triple killer Anthony Russell allegedly shouted "I've done it, I've done it" after repeatedly striking Huntley over the head with a metal bar. Huntley, now 52 years old, was left with severe injuries requiring immediate medical attention.
Durham Constabulary declined to identify the suspect publicly but confirmed on the day of the attack that a man in his mid-40s had been detained within the prison facility. The individual has not yet been formally arrested as investigations continue.
Background of the Perpetrator and Victim
Ian Huntley was convicted for the murders of 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in August 2002. The former school caretaker lured the girls from a family barbecue in Soham, Cambridgeshire, before killing them and disposing of their bodies in a ditch. He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years.
Anthony Russell, the alleged attacker, is serving a whole-life tariff imposed in 2021 for three separate murders. His victims included Julie Williams, 58, her son David Williams, 32, and pregnant 31-year-old Nicole McGregor, whom he also raped. Russell committed these crimes in Coventry and near Leamington Spa.
History of Attacks on Huntley
This latest assault represents another serious attempt on Huntley's life while in custody. Prison authorities had reportedly placed him under close observation to prevent such incidents, given his notoriety as a child killer.
In 2010, inmate Damien Fowkes attacked Huntley with a homemade weapon, inflicting a severe 7-inch (18cm) gash to his neck that required 21 stitches. Following that assault, Fowkes asked a prison officer "Is he dead? I hope so," describing Huntley as "a notorious child killer, both inside prison and in society in general."
The repeated targeting of Huntley highlights the ongoing dangers he faces within the prison system, despite protective measures. Police continue to monitor the situation while Huntley receives medical treatment for his latest injuries.
