Southampton protests turn violent after Henry Nowak killing

Eighteen‑year‑old Henry Nowak died from a stab wound during a night out in Southampton after police placed him in handcuffs, a body‑camera video later showed. The footage sparked public outrage and a political dispute, with the Prime Minister urging politicians not to exploit the tragedy.

Protests near the scene of the stabbing escalated into riots, involving hundreds of demonstrators, some traveling from outside the area. Police used riot units to prevent crowds from reaching the victim’s family home. In the aftermath, three men – Connor Bishop, Reece Robinson and Noah Etherington – were charged with violent disorder and will appear in Southampton Magistrates’ Court. Earlier related charges include a guilty plea for violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

The incidents have heightened tensions over police conduct and community relations in the Hampshire region.