University of Southampton 'shocked and deeply saddened' after first year student Henry Nowak stabbed to death following night out

Henry Nowak was walking in Belmont Road, Southampton, after a night out with his new football mates to celebrate the end of the first term at Southampton University.

It was reported that Henry was involved in an altercation with two men he did not know at approximately 11.30pm on December 3.

The 18-year-old was found with a puncture wound to his chest and two to his leg, and he was pronounced dead at the scene, prompting a murder investigation.

Vickrum Digwa, of St Denys Road, Southampton, has been charged with the teenager’s murder. The 22-year-old man, who is British and of Asian ethnicity, has also been charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Officers have also charged a woman in connection with this incident. Kiran Kaur, 52, of St Denys Road, Southampton, who is Indian and of Asian ethnicity, has been charged with assisting an offender.

Both are due to appear at Southampton Magistrates Court today (Monday, December 8).

A 51-year-old man, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

A 26-year-old man, who had also been arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released with no further action in relation to that offence. He was additionally arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and a public order offence, and has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

In a tribute, Henry’s family have described him as a ‘kind, intelligent, and talented son’ who ‘was loved by all those that knew him’.

The tribute added: “Our hearts ache when we think of the bright future he had ahead of him, full of opportunity and adventures.

“There are no words to describe just how heartbroken we are that we will never get to see him grow and fulfil his awesome potential. We are so proud of him and all he achieved. Our world will never be the same without our amazing Henry.”

Professor Mark E. Smith, vice-chancellor of the University of Southampton, has released a statement, saying: “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the death of our student, Henry Nowak.

“Our thoughts are very much with his family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him at this incredibly difficult time.

“Henry was in his first year here at Southampton and his family have lovingly described how he was embracing university life.

“We are focused on supporting our community of students and staff and want them to know that they can reach out if they are struggling or have concerns. Our student hub is available to contact 24/7 by calling 02380 599 599.

“Of course, we will support the police with their ongoing investigation in any way that we can.”

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.

For more information about Southampton University’s student hub, click here.