Full Breakdown
Inquiry into Nottingham Attacks Highlights Police Response Failures
3/18/2026, 12:26:20 PM
Overview of the Incident
The inquiry into the Nottingham attacks, which occurred on June 13, 2023, is examining the police response to a series of violent incidents involving the assailant Valdo Calocane. Calocane is accused of fatally stabbing Barnaby Webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates, while also attempting to kill three others. The inquiry, chaired by retired senior judge Deborah Taylor KC, is set to hear from over 100 witnesses over nine weeks.
Police Response and Immediate Aftermath
Footage presented during the inquiry shows Calocane being brought into custody, where he unexpectedly lashed out at a police officer. Following this incident, Chief Inspector Lisa Murray of Nottinghamshire Police described the officer's reaction as one of shock, indicating that the assault was not anticipated. The inquiry also revealed that Calocane was uncooperative during questioning, refusing to provide medical samples and only answering certain questions.
The police's situational awareness during the attacks has come under scrutiny. At approximately 07:00 BST, three hours after the attacks began, Ch Insp David Mather was informed of two fatalities and remarked, "it's not as bad as I thought," a statement that has raised concerns about the police's perception of the severity of the situation.
Criticism of Police Coordination
Sophie Cartwright KC, representing some victims, criticized Mather for lacking situational awareness, particularly for not issuing updated briefings as the nature of the attacks became clearer. Superintendent Simon Allardice acknowledged that there was an opportunity for a more comprehensive briefing after Calocane's arrest but maintained that a high alert level was still in effect.
Tim Moloney KC, representing bereaved families, emphasized the need for better coordination with CCTV operators to track Calocane immediately following the first stabbing. He argued that there was a lack of proactive measures, stating, "if Calocane had tried to flee instead of continue attacks, he could have been 'long gone'." Allardice conceded that a call to CCTV operators should have been made to ensure they were actively monitoring the situation.
Official Statements & Responses
The inquiry continues to explore the police's actions during the attacks, with various officials acknowledging gaps in communication and coordination. Superintendent Allardice admitted that a check-in call to CCTV operators was necessary, reinforcing the need for improved situational awareness during critical incidents.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies in the accounts of police responses during the attacks. While some officers have defended their actions, others have pointed out significant lapses in communication and coordination that could have potentially mitigated the situation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think from the extent of [the officer's] response and reaction, it came as a shock and certainly I think she goes on to describe that in her statement.” — Chief Inspector Lisa Murray, Nottinghamshire Police
- “These were two brutal killings with a brutal killer on the loose, are you not doing everything in your power to try and catch this man?” — Tim Moloney KC, representing bereaved families
The inquiry is ongoing, with further testimonies expected to shed light on the police's handling of the Nottingham attacks.
