Ian Huntley Attacked in Maximum Security Prison Workshop
Ian Huntley, the notorious Soham child killer, was violently assaulted at HMP Frankland, a maximum security prison near Durham, on Thursday morning. According to reports, a man yelled 'I've done it, I've done it' immediately after the attack, which left Huntley unconscious and in a pool of blood.
Details of the Violent Incident
Durham Constabulary confirmed that a 52-year-old prisoner, widely understood to be Huntley, was assaulted in the prison's workshop. The Sun newspaper, which first broke the story, reported that the attacker used a metal pole to strike Huntley six times, knocking him unconscious. Police sources described his condition as 'touch and go' following the brutal assault.
The force issued a statement on Thursday afternoon confirming: 'The 52-year-old prisoner who was injured during this morning's assault in the workshop at HMP Frankland remains in a serious condition in hospital following treatment for head injuries.'
Suspect Identified and Investigation Underway
Police have identified a male prisoner in his mid-40s as the primary suspect in the attack. According to Durham Constabulary, 'A suspect, a male prisoner in his mid-40s, has been identified by officers investigating the incident. He has not been arrested at this stage but remains in detention within the prison.'
Forensic teams spent the entire day examining the scene of the attack to gather evidence. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the violent incident.
History of Attacks Against the Notorious Child Killer
This represents the latest in a series of attacks against Huntley, who murdered 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham, Cambridgeshire, in August 2002. The former school caretaker is serving a life sentence with a minimum recommendation of 40 years for the double murder.
Previous attacks include:
- 2010: Robber Damien Fowkes slashed Huntley's neck with a homemade weapon, creating a 7-inch wound requiring 21 stitches. Fowkes reportedly asked prison officers: 'Is he dead? I hope so.'
- Multiple incidents: Prison authorities have reportedly kept Huntley under close observation to prevent further attacks due to his notoriety as a child killer.
Broader Context of Prison Violence
The attack on Huntley occurs amid increasing concerns about violence within the UK's prison system. Recent incidents at maximum security facilities include:
- Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi accused of attacking prison officers with hot cooking oil and makeshift weapons
- Former Lostprophets frontman Ian Watkins dying after an alleged attack at HMP Wakefield last October
- Killamarsh killer Damien Bendall receiving an additional life sentence for attempting to murder another Frankland inmate with a claw hammer
These incidents highlight ongoing challenges in maintaining security within high-risk prison environments, particularly when housing notorious offenders who become targets for other inmates.
The Press Association reported that Huntley was left in a pool of blood following Thursday's assault. As investigations continue, prison authorities face renewed questions about security protocols for high-profile inmates with histories of being targeted by other prisoners.
