Man charged with murder after ‘talented’ student, 18, stabbed to death on night out
A man has been charged with the murder of an 18-year-old student who was stabbed to death during a night out with his football teammates.
Henry Nowak, of Chafford Hundred in Essex, suffered a puncture wound to his chest and two wounds to the back of his leg after being involved in an altercation.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene after officers attended the incident on Belmont Road in Portswood on Wednesday.
Hampshire Police have since charged Vickrum Digwa, 22, of St Denys Road, Southampton, with murder. He is also charged with possession of a sharp instrument in a public place.
Kiran Kaur, 52, of St Denys Road, was charged with assisting an offender. Both are expected to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Police said a 51-year-old man, who was previously arrested on suspicion of murder, was released on police bail pending further investigation.
The 26-year-old man, who was also arrested on suspicion of murder, was released without any action being taken regarding this crime. He was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and a public order offense and was released on police bail pending further investigation.
Mr Nowak’s family wrote in a statement released on Sunday: “Our kind, bright and talented son was in his first year at the University of Southampton, studying accounting and finance.
“He got through his A-levels and fully embraced university life, joining not one but two football teams, making new friends and working part-time in the local Morrisons.”
The statement continued: “Henry was loved by everyone who knew him. He was an incredible son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew, friend and teammate. He was an all-around top kid, and everyone lucky enough to share his company thought the same.”
“He went out for a night with his new football teammates to celebrate the end of their first semester at university. Unfortunately, he never made it home.”
“Our hearts ache when we think of the bright future he has ahead of him, full of opportunities and adventures. There are no words to express how heartbroken we are that we will never get to see him grow and fulfill his amazing potential. We are so proud of him and everything he has accomplished.”
“Our world will never be the same without Henry the Magnificent.”
Professor Mark E Smith, vice-chancellor of the University of Southampton, said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the death of our student Henry Nowak.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who knew and loved him during this incredibly difficult time.”
