An 18-year-old student who was stabbed to death told police 'I can't breathe' while handcuffed moments before he died, as an investigation into the officers' actions continues.
Henry Nowak was killed in a stabbing in June 2026. His attacker, Vickrum Digwa, was jailed for life with a minimum term of 21 years after being convicted of murder. Digwa had claimed self-defence, but the court rejected his account.
“Student Henry Nowak, 18, told police 'I can't breathe' while handcuffed after being stabbed. His killer Vickrum Digwa jailed for life with minimum 21 years. IOPC investigating police actions.”
During the incident, Nowak was handcuffed by police despite telling them he had been stabbed. According to reports, he said 'I've been stabbed, I can't breathe' as officers restrained him. He later died alone, humiliated and handcuffed. A statement in court said that Nowak dying in that manner 'was a direct consequence of Vickrum Digwa’s dishonesty.'
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the actions of the police officers involved. The IOPC inquiry is ongoing, examining whether the officers' response was appropriate given that Nowak was already injured.
The case has raised questions about police handling of knife crime incidents, particularly when victims may be mistaken for suspects. Nowak's family have called for a full account of what happened in his final moments.
Digwa was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 21 years. He had argued he acted in self-defence, but the jury found him guilty of murder. The judge described the killing as a 'senseless act of violence' that cut short a promising young life.
A spokesperson for the IOPC said: 'We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the police contact with Henry Nowak prior to his death. Our investigation will consider whether officers acted in line with their training and procedures.'
The police force involved has said it will cooperate fully with the IOPC investigation. A statement from the force said: 'Our thoughts remain with Henry's family and friends at this difficult time. We are committed to learning any lessons from this tragic incident.'
What This Means For You - The case highlights ongoing concerns about police response to knife crime, particularly how officers identify victims and suspects at the scene. - Families of victims may seek reassurance that officers receive adequate training to recognise when someone is injured and in need of urgent medical attention. - The IOPC investigation could lead to changes in police protocols for dealing with stabbing incidents in England and Wales. - Anyone who witnesses a stabbing or other violent incident should call 999 immediately and ensure they clearly communicate if the person is injured to avoid confusion. - The 21-year minimum sentence for murder reflects the severity of knife crime penalties in the UK.