School caretaker named as third victim of Nottingham attacks

65-year-old Ian Coates was killed yesterday

Flowers left on Magdala Road
Author: Chris MaskeryPublished 14th Jun 2023

The third person to be killed in the attack in Nottingham has been named as a local caretaker.

The L.E.A.D Academy has posted online to say they're "deeply shocked and saddened" to hear about the death of Ian Coates who was a "beloved and respected" member of staff.

In a statement confirming the death of Ian Coates, Ross Middleton, Executive Headteacher, Huntingdon Academy and Warren Academy, said: “Ian was a much-loved colleague who always went the extra mile for the benefit of our children and will be greatly missed.

“As a school community, it will take time to process this deeply upsetting news. We wish to extend our sympathy and condolences to all those affected by yesterday’s tragic events.”

Diana Owen, chief executive of the L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear about this tragic news.

“Ian was a beloved and respected member of the Huntingdon Academy staff. My thoughts are with his family and friends during this extremely sad time.”

"I'm broken"

Tributes have been pouring in for the caretaker online.

Lee Coates posted "RIP Dad" on Twitter, saying he's "broken" by the news of his death.

Who are the other victims?

Two talented sportspeople from the University of Nottingham, Barnaby Webber and Grace Kumar, were also killed in the attacks in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

In a statement, Barnaby Webber's parents David and Emma, and younger brother Charlie, described their “complete devastation”.

Tributes are also being paid to fellow university student Grace Kumar, who was also 19.

The London teen played cricket and hockey for a number of teams.

Woodford Wells Cricket Club, in Essex, described her as “fun, friendly and brilliant”.

“Devastated to hear the news about former Wells Baby Belles captain, Grace Kumar,” the club Tweeted.

“A fiercely competitive, talented and dedicated cricketer and hockey player.

“Our thoughts are with Sanjoy, Sinead and James at this time and everyone who knew Grace – fun, friendly and brilliant.”

How the Nottingham attacks unfolded

4AM: Police called in early hours

Police called to Ilkeston Road after two people found dead.
Soon after 4AM: Officers called to another incident on Milton Street, where a van had attempted to run over three people
Soon after 4AM: A man was also found dead on Magdala Road.

9:30AM: Man arrested

Nottinghamshire Police release a statement saying a 31-year-old man has been arrested.
Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: "This is an horrific and tragic incident which has claimed the lives of three people.
"We believe these three incidents are all linked and we have a man in custody."

10AM: Tributes start pouring in

Tributes start pouring in from politicians, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who said: "I want to thank the police and emergency services for their ongoing response to the shocking incident in Nottingham this morning."
I am being kept updated on developments. The police must be given the time to undertake their work.
My thoughts are with those injured, and the family and loved ones of those who have lost their lives."

2:30PM: Police issue update

Nottinghamshire Police issue a second statement, saying no other people were being investigated in connection with the attacks. They add police were keeping an 'open mind' over the motive of the attacks.

4:15PM: Uni of Notts confirm student deaths

The University of Nottingham issue a statement confirming the two people killed on Ilkeston Road were students at the University. Tributes begin pouring in from other universities across the UK.

5PM: Vigil held at St Peter's Church

A vigil is held at St Peter's Church. Around 400 students attend, some with flowers, to pay their respects.

5:30PM: Chief Constable Kate Meynell speaks to the press

Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell confirms the three people killed were all stabbed to death, and two of the victims were 19-years-old.
She confirms the van which drove at members of the public was stolen from the third victim - a man in his 60s that was found dead on Magdala Road.
The van was then stopped on Maple Street where a man was tasered and detained by officers on suspicion of murder.

8PM: Students named

19-year-old Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar are named as the two students from the Uni of Nottingham who were killed on Ilkeston Road.

(14th June) 11:30AM: Third victim named

The third victim, who was killed on Magdala Road, is named as Ian Coates - a school caretaker in his 60s.

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