Henry Nowak, an eighteen year old student from Southampton, died after a violent stabbing incident that later involved police custody. The case has raised serious questions about police handling and response at the scene.
A man later convicted for the attack, Vickrum Digwa, initially misled officers by claiming he had been attacked in a racist assault. This claim influenced early police actions during the emergency response.
What Happened at the Scene
Body camera footage shows officers arriving and finding Henry on the ground with visible injuries. He repeatedly told officers that he had been stabbed and could not breathe.
Despite his repeated statements, one officer questioned his condition and suggested he may not have been stabbed. Officers then assisted him into handcuffs while he remained on the ground.
Henry said he could not breathe multiple times during this process. He also appeared weak and unresponsive as officers continued questioning what had happened.
How Police Responded
Officers focused first on gathering information from the scene, including speaking to Digwa, who claimed minor injuries. Attention then shifted back to Henry while he remained on the ground.
An officer briefly checked Henry for visible wounds. Another voice suggested he did not appear to have stab injuries. Henry was then arrested for assault while still in distress.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct confirmed that a formal investigation into police actions is ongoing.
Family Reaction
Henry’s family described his treatment as deeply upsetting. His father Mark said his son repeatedly told officers he could not breathe and that he had been stabbed.
He also said the difference in treatment between Henry and the attacker was extremely painful for the family to see. The family believes Henry did not receive proper care in his final moments.
The police force involved has issued an apology following public concern over the incident.
Legal and Official Response
The attacker received a life sentence with a minimum term of twenty one years. Authorities are also reviewing the sentence under the unduly lenient sentence scheme after several requests.
Government officials have confirmed that related concerns are also being examined at national level. The case continues to attract strong public attention.
