Ian Huntley, the man responsible for the horrific murders of schoolgirls Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham in 2002, is nearing death after being taken off life support on Friday, according to prison sources. The news comes after Huntley was brutally attacked while serving a life sentence at HMP Frankland, a high-security prison in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. This latest incident adds another layer to a history of violence against the notorious child murderer.
The attack is believed to have been carried out by Anthony Russell, 43, who is described as a triple killer, Yahoo News UK reports. Huntley and Russell were both inmates at HMP Frankland, often referred to as “monster mansion” due to its reputation for extreme violence and housing some of the UK’s most dangerous criminals, including murderers and rapists.
History of Violence Against Huntley
This is not the first time Huntley has been targeted while incarcerated. In 2010, he was slashed across the throat at HMP Frankland, requiring 21 stitches to treat the injury. Reports indicate the prison has a long-standing problem with violence. Prior to the 2010 attack, in 2005, while at HMP Wakefield, Huntley was attacked by a convicted murderer who threw boiling water over him.
Huntley’s conviction stemmed from the disappearance and subsequent murder of ten-year-old Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in August 2002. The girls had been at a family barbecue and were believed to be on their way to buy sweets when Huntley, then a 28-year-old school caretaker, lured them to his home and killed them. The case shocked the nation and led to a massive police investigation.
Potential Transfer to Secure Hospital
Should Huntley survive, there is a possibility he will be transferred to a secure hospital, according to the Daily Express. The cost of care at such a facility could reach £300,000 per year.
The BBC reports that Huntley was taken off life support on Friday, and is now close to death. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances of the attack or the ongoing investigation.
The case continues to draw attention, not only due to the horrific nature of the crimes but also the repeated violence Huntley has faced while imprisoned. The incident raises questions about safety within the UK prison system and the challenges of managing high-risk inmates. The focus now remains on the investigation into the attack and the potential implications for Huntley’s future, should he survive.
As Huntley’s condition remains critical, authorities are expected to provide further updates as they grow available. The public will likely continue to follow this case closely, given its profound impact on the nation and the enduring grief of the Wells and Chapman families.
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