Tragic Murder of Southampton Student: Bodycam Footage Reveals Disturbing Details

The tragic murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak in Southampton has drawn attention following the release of bodycam footage showing the chaotic aftermath of the stabbing. Vickrum Digwa, the assailant, has been sentenced to life in prison. The footage reveals disturbing moments as police arrived at the scene, raising serious questions about their response. The case has sparked controversy, particularly regarding Digwa's false claims of self-defense and racial abuse. As the investigation continues, concerns about police impartiality and judgment have emerged, prompting a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct. This incident has left a profound impact on the community and raised awareness about issues of violence and public safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 2, 2026, 05:17 IST

Bodycam Footage Unveils Distressing Events After Stabbing

Recently released bodycam footage has shed light on the chaotic aftermath of the stabbing of 18-year-old Henry Nowak in Southampton. The assailant, Vickrum Digwa, aged 23, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 21 years for the murder. The incident took place on December 3, when Nowak, a first-year student at the University of Southampton, was returning home alone after a night out with friends. The footage, made public by the Crown Prosecution Service with the consent of Nowak's family, captures the moments when police arrived at the scene and interacted with Digwa and bystanders. In the video, Henry can be heard pleading, "I've been stabbed" and "I can't breathe" as he lay on the ground. Officers are seen turning him onto his side and handcuffing him, and after a few minutes, he became unresponsive. An officer informed him of his arrest for assault before calling for emergency medical help.

Southampton, England — Bodycam footage of the arrest of Henry Nowak, who had been stabbed moments earlier by Vickrum Digwa. https://t.co/xmT0ZOvbOO
— AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) June 1, 2026

Concerns Arise Over Police Response Amid Ongoing Investigation

The case has ignited further debate, particularly after it was revealed that Digwa had falsely asserted he acted in self-defense and claimed to have been racially abused. Initially, police were misled by information from a 999 call made by Digwa's brother. Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Robert France expressed regret, stating that officers faced an "extremely complex" crime scene due to being misinformed. Judge William Mousley KC dismissed Digwa's allegations of racism and self-defense, emphasizing that his actions brought "shame" to his family and religion. The court was informed that Digwa inflicted five stab wounds on Nowak, including injuries to his legs, face, and a fatal chest wound. Following the attack, Digwa handed the knife to his mother, Kiran Kaur, who was later convicted for aiding an offender by attempting to conceal the weapon.

Outside the court, Henry's father, Mark Nowak, criticized the treatment his son received, describing it as "inhumane and degrading." He lamented that Henry did not pass away with dignity or the care he deserved, stating that he lost consciousness before anyone believed his pleas. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, while Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones expressed serious concerns regarding the police's impartiality, fairness, and judgment in this case. Additionally, Digwa received a sentence for carrying a knife in public, while Kiran Kaur is scheduled for sentencing on July 17.