Ian Huntley's Prison Attack: Red Shirt Stunt and Inmate Rivalry Revealed
Soham killer Ian Huntley was discovered lying in a pool of blood at HMP Frankland after a savage assault with a metal pole, with reports indicating the attack stemmed from a chilling football shirt stunt and ongoing tensions with a fellow inmate. The 52-year-old, serving life for the murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in 2002, was ambushed in a prison workshop on Thursday morning, leaving his condition described as "touch and go" after being airlifted to hospital.
Red Shirt Provocation Sparks Outrage Among Inmates
Inmates at HMP Frankland were reportedly furious over Huntley's decision to wear a plain red football top bearing the number 10 on the back. This act was seen as a twisted nod to his 10-year-old victims, Holly and Jessica, who were wearing matching Manchester United shirts when he murdered them. Prisoners are prohibited from wearing replica kits to avoid conflicts, yet Huntley had allegedly purchased one "as close to a Man United top as possible" and strutted about the prison, exacerbating bitterness among hardened criminals.
An insider revealed that Huntley's arrogance and perceived preferential treatment fueled resentment. He spent most of his time as an "enhanced" status prisoner, enjoying additional perks, and was closely guarded by staff due to being a high-profile target. His cell was positioned near a guards' office, and officers accompanied him during movements, but this protection failed to prevent the attack.
Clash with Alleged Attacker Anthony Russell
The assault followed weeks of tension between Huntley and alleged attacker Anthony Russell, a 43-year-old rapist and triple murderer. The pair had reportedly clashed when their cells were adjacent, with Huntley attempting to intimidate Russell. Russell seized an opportunity to strike when Huntley was permitted to attend a recycling workshop on the prison's A-wing, a decision that an insider said "sealed his fate." After the frenzied attack, Russell is said to have screamed, "I've done it, I've killed him."
Prison sources noted that it was "only a matter of time" before Huntley faced violence, given the widespread desire among inmates to target him. His role as a cleaner had kept him under close watch, but the workshop access provided a rare opening for assault. Huntley's life sentence, imposed in 2003 with a minimum of four decades, was underscored by judges stating he had "little or no hope" of release.
Broader Context of Prison Dynamics and Safety
This incident highlights the volatile environment within high-security prisons like HMP Frankland, where notorious offenders often face threats from fellow inmates. Huntley's case underscores how:
- Provocative behavior, such as wearing symbolic clothing, can escalate tensions rapidly.
- Inmate rivalries and past conflicts contribute to violent outbreaks, even with enhanced security measures.
- Prison management decisions, like allowing workshop attendance, can inadvertently increase risks for high-profile prisoners.
The attack has drawn attention to the challenges of safeguarding despised criminals in custody, as Huntley's heinous crimes and arrogant demeanor made him a prime target. Despite precautions, the assault demonstrates the persistent dangers within the prison system, where inmate fury can override protective protocols.
