Man charged with murdering Grace O’Malley-Kumar and two others

A 31-year-old man has been charged with murdering hockey star and budding doctor Grace O’Malley-Kumar and two others in Nottingham.

Nottinghamshire Police said Valdo Calocane, 31, has been charged with three counts of murder over the deaths of 19-year-old Grace, her fellow University of Nottingham student Barnaby Webber and Ian Coates, 65, who were all fatally stabbed on Tuesday (June 13).

Calocane, of no fixed address, is also accused of three counts of attempted murder after a van was allegedly driven at pedestrians in the early hours of Tuesday morning, the force added.

Before studying in Nottingham, Grace attended Bancroft’s School in Redbridge.

Grace played hockey for London’s Southgate Hockey Club as well as for the Old Loughtonians in Chigwell and England U18.

She was looking to follow in her family’s footsteps by studying to become a doctor.

Her father, Dr Sanjoy Kumar, saved three teenage victims of a knife attack in 2009.

Mum Sinead O’Malley has been a consultant anaesthetist at The Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead, according to the Irish Times.

Grace’s family previously said in a statement: “Grace was an adored daughter and sister; she was a truly wonderful and beautiful young lady.

“Grace was not just a sister to James but his best friend. He is completely heartbroken.

“As parents, words cannot explain our complete and utter devastation.”

The defendant is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (June 17), according to police.

Chief Constable Kate Meynell, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “These charges are a significant development.

“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of all those affected by these attacks, and we will continue to provide support and reassurance.”

She added: “This has been an incredibly sad time for our city and county, and we stand united with our communities as we come to terms with the effects of what has happened.

A vigil was held at St Peter’s church in Nottingham earlier this week following the attack. (Image: PA)

“We are keenly aware of the deep emotion being felt surrounding these tragic events and the high level of interest, not only in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire but also across the whole country.

“However, posting prejudicial information online about an active case could amount to contempt of court and, in the most serious cases, have the potential to cause the collapse of a trial.”