Family of Southampton student Henry Nowak relive trauma of police footage as watchdog investigates officers

Family recalls devastating news

Police told Henry’s family in the early hours that he had died after an altercation. Mark Nowak said he collapsed in pain when he heard the news, while Olivia recalled hearing her father scream, “My boy, my boy.” The family said the trauma was compounded when they later watched footage of officers handcuffing Henry as he lay dying. He repeatedly told police he had been stabbed.

False account and police footage

Vickrum Digwa falsely told police that Henry had racially abused him. The footage of officers handcuffing the student prompted widespread political outrage when it emerged. The article does not identify the circumstances behind the footage beyond the account that Henry was dying and repeatedly said he had been stabbed.

Reviews and investigation underway

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced an independent review into the murder, led by former lord chancellor Alex Chalk. It will examine “any missed opportunities to intervene,” Chalk said.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating two officers for potential gross misconduct. The watchdog said it expects the investigation to conclude early next year. Chalk also said questions had been raised about whether agencies acted on complaints concerning Digwa’s violent and erratic behaviour.