Soham Killer Ian Huntley Seriously Injured in Prison Attack

Ian Huntley, the murderer of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, is fighting for his life after a violent attack at HMP Frankland in County Durham on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The attack involved a metal pole and has prompted a police investigation.

Details of the Attack

Durham Constabulary reported that a prisoner, understood to be Huntley, was assaulted in a workshop at the maximum-security prison. He was subsequently taken to hospital with serious head injuries The Guardian. According to The Sun, Huntley was knocked unconscious after being struck six times with a metal pole and his condition is described as “touch and go” Standard.

A witness reportedly shouted “I’ve done it, I’ve done it” immediately after the attack Standard.

Police Investigation and Suspect

Police forensic teams have examined the scene to gather evidence. A male prisoner in his mid-40s has been identified as a suspect but has not been arrested and remains in detention within the prison The Guardian, Standard.

Huntley’s History and Previous Attacks

Ian Huntley is serving a life sentence for the murders of 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham, Cambridgeshire, on August 4, 2002. He was given a minimum term of 40 years Independent.

This is not the first time Huntley has been targeted in prison. In 2010, he was slashed with a homemade weapon by Damien Fowkes, resulting in a 7-inch wound to his neck that required 21 stitches Independent.

Recent Violence at HMP Frankland

HMP Frankland has seen a recent increase in violent incidents. Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi is accused of attacking prison officers with hot cooking oil and makeshift weapons Standard. Damien Bendall, who murdered his partner and three children, recently received another life sentence for attempting to murder a fellow inmate at the prison with a claw hammer Standard.

A Prison Service spokesperson stated that a prisoner is receiving treatment following the incident and that it would be inappropriate to comment further while police investigate Standard.