Ian Huntley: Soham Killer Dies After Prison Attack

Ian Huntley, the convicted murderer of schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, has died in hospital after suffering severe head injuries in a prison attack. The 52-year-old was attacked at HMP Frankland, a high-security prison in County Durham, on February 26, 2026.

Details of the Attack

Huntley was reportedly attacked by another inmate, Anthony Russell, 43, who allegedly shouted “I’ve done it, I’ve done it” after the assault. Russell is currently in detention, according to Durham Constabulary, but has not yet been formally arrested BBC News. The attack occurred in the recycling area of the prison and involved a metal bar The Independent.

Huntley’s Condition and Death

Following the attack, Huntley was placed on life support at a hospital. Reports indicated he was blinded as a result of the injuries The Independent. Brain tests later confirmed he was in a vegetative state, and life support was withdrawn on Friday The Independent.

Background: The Soham Murders

Ian Huntley and Maxine Carr were convicted in 2003 of the murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, two 10-year-old girls who disappeared from Soham, Cambridgeshire, in August 2002. Huntley was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 40 years BBC News. He had enticed the girls into his home before murdering them and disposing of their bodies in a ditch.

The Attacker: Anthony Russell

Anthony Russell, the inmate accused of the attack, is already serving a life sentence for the murders of Julie Williams, her son David Williams, and Nicole McGregor The Independent. He was convicted in 2021 for these crimes, which included rape.

Reaction to Huntley’s Death

Samantha Bryan, Huntley’s daughter, expressed a stark sentiment following the attack, stating, “There’s a special place in hell waiting for him” The Independent.

Durham Constabulary continues to investigate the assault at HMP Frankland.