Independent review launched into murder of Essex teenager

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 15:57 · Archive

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced an independent review into the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak, to be led by former Conservative Justice Secretary and Lord Chancellor Alex Chalk KC. The review follows widespread public concern about the case.

Henry, from Chafford Hundred in Thurrock, attended Harris Academy Chafford Hundred and was a first-year Accounting and Finance student at the University of Southampton. He was stabbed five times on December 3, 2025, while returning home from a night out with friends.

Vickrum Digwa, 23, was subsequently convicted of Henry's murder and sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years. The case attracted significant attention after police body-worn camera footage was released showing Henry being handcuffed as he lay dying. The footage showed Henry telling officers he had been stabbed and that he could not breathe.

Digwa had falsely told officers that Henry had attacked him and racially abused him. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating two officers for potential gross misconduct in connection with the incident.

Speaking in Parliament in June, Ms Mahmood said Henry's family "deserve answers", particularly about what happened on the night of his death and the actions of officers who attended the scene.

Independent review launched into murder of Essex teenager — Image: Brentwood Guardian

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How it is being reported

Independent review announced into murder of Essex teenager Henry NowakAn independent review is to be launched into the murder of Henry Nowak, whose death sparked national outrage.Brentwood Guardian · 26 Oct, 15:22
Independent review announced into murder of Essex teenager Henry NowakAn independent review is to be launched into the murder of Henry Nowak, whose death sparked national outrage.Colchester Gazette · 26 Oct, 15:22
Independent review announced into murder of Essex teenager Henry NowakAn independent review is to be launched into the murder of Henry Nowak, whose death sparked national outrage.Echo (Basildon) · 26 Oct, 15:22

In this story: Henry Nowak · Shabana Mahmood · Alex Chalk · Vickrum Digwa · Southampton · Thurrock · University of Southampton

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