Suella Braverman has made a statement in the House of Commons on the fatal attacks in Nottingham that left three people dead. The home secretary confirmed that counter terror police are assisting with inquiries but this "does not mean that it is currently being treated as a terrorist attack".
It comes as Ian Coates was named as the third victim and tributes continued to flood in for the two teenage students named last night who were also fatally stabbed.
Academy site manager Mr Coates, who worked as part of LEAD Academy Trust, was described by Huntingdon Academy and Warren Academy’s executive headteacher as “a much-loved colleague who always went the extra mile".
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University of Nottingham students Barnaby Webber and Grace Kumar were also killed in the attacks in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Nottinghamshire Police said a 31-year-old man was tasered and arrested on suspicion of murder after the pair were stabbed to death in Ilkeston Road at about 4am.
Mr Coates was then found fatally knifed in Magdala Road before the suspect is believed to have stolen his van and driven at pedestrians in Milton Street. Three people were injured in the van attack, with one in a critical condition in hospital and two suffering minor injuries.
In a statement today, Ms Braverman said: “I can tell the House that the police are working flat out to establish the full facts and provide support to everyone affected. They are currently keeping an open mind as to the motives behind these attacks but I can confirm Nottinghamshire Police are being assisted in their inquiries by counter terror police. Though, this does not mean that it is currently being treated as a terrorist attack.”
Ms Braverman also cautioned people against speculating about the attacks, saying it “runs the risk of being counterproductive”.
Addressing MPs in the Commons, she added: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, friends and all those affected. All of us extend a hand of friendship to the people of Nottingham. I’m of course being kept fully informed by law enforcement on the ground and receiving regular updates.
“The House will appreciate the critical importance of following due process at all times. It’s completely natural to seek answers immediately when something terrible happens. But it’s also vital that those answers are wholly accurate. Speculating out loud is never helpful and runs the risk of being counterproductive."
Nottinghamshire Police’s chief constable Kate Meynell told reporters on Tuesday night that the force was not looking for anyone else in connection with the incidents and no further arrests had been made.
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