Ian Huntley, the notorious Soham killer, has been blinded and is not expected to regain consciousness following a vicious assault by a fellow inmate inside a high-security prison, according to recent reports. The former school caretaker, who murdered 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in 2002, suffered severe brain trauma in the attack at HMP Frankland in Durham on February 26.
Details of the Brutal Assault
The Sun newspaper reported that Huntley, aged 52, was hit repeatedly over the head by an inmate armed with a metal bar, leaving him with catastrophic injuries. He has been kept on life support in hospital since the incident. A source quoted by the publication stated, "Huntley never recovered from the battering and never stood much of a chance of doing so," indicating the severity of the trauma.
Suspect Identified as Anthony Russell
Murderer and rapist Anthony Russell, 43, is reportedly the assailant, shouting "I've done it, I've done it" after the attack occurred in the recycling area of the prison. Russell was sentenced to a whole-life tariff in 2021 for the murders of Julie Williams, 58, her son David Williams, 32, and pregnant Nicole McGregor, 31, whom he also raped. Durham Constabulary has not officially named the suspect but confirmed a man in his mid-40s was detained on the day of the attack.
Huntley's History of Prison Attacks
This incident marks the latest attempt on Huntley's life, despite him being under close observation to prevent such assaults. In 2010, robber Damien Fowkes slashed him with a home-made weapon, causing a severe neck wound that required 21 stitches. Fowkes later described Huntley as a "notorious child killer, both inside prison and in society in general," highlighting the ongoing threats he faces from other inmates.
Family Reaction and Legal Context
After the attack, Huntley's only daughter, Samantha Bryan, 27, told The Sun on Sunday, "There's a special place in hell waiting for him." Huntley was convicted of murdering Holly and Jessica after they left a family barbecue to buy sweets in Soham, Cambridgeshire, on August 4, 2002, and dumping their bodies in a ditch. His life sentence recommended he serve at least 40 years, but his survival now remains in grave doubt following this latest violent episode.
