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Nottingham: Man charged with murder of three people killed

Nottingham: Man charged with murder of three people killed

A man has been charged with murdering three people following a series of attacks in Nottingham.

Nottinghamshire Police said Valdo Calocane, 31, is also charged with three counts of attempted murder.

He will appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.

The murder charges relate to the deaths of Grace O’Malley-Kumar and Barnaby Webber, both aged 19, and 65-year-old Ian Coates, who were fatally stabbed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The further three charges of attempted murder relate to three members of the public struck by a van.

Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: “These charges are a significant development and arise as a result of our thorough investigation into these horrific incidents that occurred in our city.

“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all those affected by these attacks, and we will continue to provide support and reassurance.

“We would also ask people to respect the families’ wishes for privacy at this difficult time to allow them to grieve.”

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Ian Coates’ sons appeared at a vigil in Old Market Square on Thursday

Flowers on the steps of Nottingham Council House after three people were killed and another three hurt in connected attacks on Tuesday morning. Picture date: Thursday June 15, 2023.
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Flowers are being left at Nottingham Council House

“This has been an incredibly sad time for our city and county, and we stand united with our communities as we come to terms with the effects of what has happened

“We are keenly aware of the deep emotion being felt surrounding these tragic events and the high level of interest, not only in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire but also across the whole country.

“However, posting prejudicial information online about an active case could amount to contempt of court and, in the most serious cases, have the potential to cause the collapse of a trial.”

Police said on Thursday the 31-year-old suspect arrested in connection with the attacks was a former University of Nottingham student.

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Nottingham attacks: Families give emotional speeches

Tributes have been paid to the victims following the attacks.

Medical student Miss O’Malley-Kumar, who played for the England under-18s hockey team, was hailed “a truly wonderful young lady” who was “resilient and wise beyond her years”, while the family of history student Mr Webber said the teenager was a “bright young man” who was “a talented and passionate cricketer”.

The sons of Mr Coates, who was four months away from retirement, described the “massive football fan” as a “great father”.

At an emotional vigil on Thursday evening, the mother of Mr Webber urged people to “hold no hate” in the wake of the attacks.