Nottingham van attack: 3 dead, 3 injured, suspect arrested

A major incident has been declared in Nottingham after three individuals were found dead and three others were hospitalised following a connected van attack. The events unfolded early on Tuesday morning, with two people discovered dead on Ilkeston Road and a third on Magdala Road. In a related incident, a van attempted to run over three pedestrians on Milton Street, leaving them injured and requiring hospital treatment.

A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody. The police are investigating the links between the incidents and have not classified them as terror-related at this stage. Chief Constable Kate Meynell described the events as “horrific and tragic,” and urged the public to be patient as the investigation continues.

Witnesses recounted the harrowing scene near Theatre Royal in the city centre, where a man and a woman were struck by the van. Both individuals sustained injuries but remained conscious and able to speak. Another witness described being woken up by the sound of sirens and expressed shock at the events unfolding in Nottingham, a city they considered safe.

In response to the incident, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak thanked the police and emergency services for their ongoing efforts and expressed his thoughts for those affected. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer also conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the work of emergency responders.

As the investigation proceeds, several road closures have been implemented, and the Nottingham Express Transit tram network has suspended all services. The police have advised the public to avoid the affected areas, which are expected to remain closed for some time.