Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced an independent review into the murder of Henry Nowak, to be led by former lord chancellor Alex Chalk. The 18-year-old student was handcuffed as he lay dying after being fatally stabbed in Southampton on December 3 2025.
Home Secretary announces review
Ms Mahmood said: "Henry was just 18 years old, with his whole life ahead of him. His murder was a horrific and senseless crime, and my thoughts remain with his family and friends, who have endured unimaginable loss and heartbreak."
She added: "The Nowak family have shown extraordinary courage and dignity in their pursuit of answers. Henry's case has raised serious and legitimate questions about whether more could have been done to prevent this tragedy, and about the response of public authorities in its aftermath."
Review to seek answers
"This review will leave no stone unturned in seeking those answers," Ms Mahmood said. "I am grateful to Alex Chalk for agreeing to lead this important work. He brings considerable experience and expertise, and I know he will conduct the review with the rigour, independence and seriousness that Henry's case demands."
The announcement follows mass protests last year sparked by the teenager's death. Further details of the review are expected to follow.
