Nottingham attacks inquiry a chance 'to confront failure'
BBC World
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The families of victims killed in the Nottingham attacks have described the ongoing public inquiry as a critical test of whether the country is willing to address its failures and implement meaningful change. The inquiry, led by retired judge Deborah Taylor, aims to examine the events leading up to the tragic incident in June 2023, where Valdo Calocane killed Ian Coates and students Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar. Calocane, who has schizophrenia, was under the care of Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust before the attacks and had previously come to police attention.
The victims' families have long demanded accountability at an individual level, as they believe earlier apologies and reviews have not led to sufficient reforms. Emma Webber, mother of Barnaby Webber, emphasized that the inquiry is not about seeking sympathy but ensuring systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. The inquiry will explore what could have been done differently across institutions, including healthcare and law enforcement, which failed to adequately manage Calocane's case.
Despite previous reviews and investigations, the families argue that a statutory inquiry is necessary to compel evidence from witnesses and ensure transparency. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer agreed to the inquiry after persistent lobbying by the bereaved families. The inquiry will run until May 2024, with its findings expected in two years. Families view this process as a long-awaited opportunity to expose failures and push for sweeping reforms that prioritize public safety.
This case highlights the broader issue of systemic failures in mental health care and law enforcement, which resonate globally. It underscores the importance of accountability and change in institutions tasked with protecting communities. For the families involved, the inquiry represents more than just justice—it is a chance to honor their loved ones' memories by ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026