Anthony Russell Charged with Murder of Ian Huntley, Soham Killer

Anthony Russell, 43, appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, March 12, 2026, charged with the murder of Ian Huntley, the man convicted of killing Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham in 2002. The appearance was via video link from HMP Frankland, near Durham, for a preliminary hearing lasting approximately ten minutes.

Details of the Court Appearance

During the hearing before Judge Francis Laird KC, Russell confirmed his name and date of birth. He was not required to enter a plea. A pre-trial preparation hearing has been scheduled for April 24, 2026, at which Russell may appear remotely.

Judge Laird confirmed with Tyrone Smith KC, Russell’s defense lawyer, that his client was present and cooperating with the proceedings. Russell acknowledged the judge’s instructions with a simple, “Thank you.”

Background of the Case

Huntley, 52, died in hospital on Saturday, March 7, 2026, after sustaining severe brain trauma in an alleged attack at HMP Frankland on February 26, 2026. He had been on life support at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.

Durham Constabulary announced on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, that Russell had been charged with Huntley’s murder .

The Soham Murders

Ian Huntley was convicted in 2003 of murdering ten-year-traditional Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman after they disappeared from a family barbecue in Soham, Cambridgeshire, on August 4, 2002. Their bodies were found 10 miles away in a ditch 13 days later. Huntley was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years .

Anthony Russell’s Prior Convictions

Anthony Russell was imprisoned in 2022 after being convicted of killing three people during a seven-day killing spree, including his friend David Williams and his mother .