NHS trust faces manslaughter probe after 2023 killings

A major mental health trust is under investigation for corporate manslaughter over its care of a patient who later killed three people in a violent rampage. Northumbria Police has begun a formal investigation into Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust regarding its treatment of Valdo Calocane, who was under its care before he fatally stabbed two students and a school caretaker in June 2023.

The investigation, announced on July 22, 2026, represents an unprecedented step. If charges are brought, it would mark the first time an NHS trust has faced prosecution for corporate manslaughter in connection with the release of a violent patient. The probe is being led by Northumbria Police on behalf of Nottinghamshire Police, which has itself faced criticism for its handling of the case.

Calocane, a 34-year-old diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, murdered University of Nottingham students Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar, both 19, and 65-year-old school caretaker Ian Coates in the early hours of June 13, 2023. He also used a van stolen from Mr. Coates to attempt to murder three pedestrians, leaving them with serious injuries. Calocane later pleaded guilty to...