Ian Huntley's Final Self-Pitying Letter to Pen Pal Emerges
Ian Huntley, the notorious Soham killer, penned a self-pitying letter to a female pen pal just eight days before he was murdered in prison. The 52-year-old's final note, written on February 18, has now surfaced, revealing his troubled state and decision to sever ties for her protection.
Contents of the Disturbing Letter
In the letter, Huntley expressed regret for not writing sooner, stating, “Sorry for not writing sooner but I’ve had a lot to deal with lately. I hate writing letters at the best of times.” He went on to explain that he had been doing some serious thinking and made a drastic decision.
Huntley wrote: “For your safety I’ve decided to discard everything you’ve sent and not proceed with having you cleared for calls and visits.” He added, “You’re a lovely person and I don’t want you placed in harm’s way due to your affiliation with me.”
The twisted killer signed off with, “Believe me when I say I have given this a great deal of thought and firmly believe it to be for the best. I hope all is well your end. Best wishes Ian.” He also thanked her for a birthday card sent on January 31, noting, “I appreciate it.”
Background of the Soham Killer
Ian Huntley was imprisoned at HMP Frankland in County Durham, a high-security facility housing other notorious criminals such as Levi Bellfield, former police officer Wayne Couzens, and various terrorists. Huntley, a former school caretaker, murdered 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman in Soham, Cambridgeshire, on August 4, 2002.
On February 26, reports emerged that Huntley had been taken to hospital after suffering severe brain trauma in an attack in a prison workshop. His condition deteriorated, and he was taken off life support on Friday, leading to his death.
Official Statements and Investigation
The Ministry of Justice issued a statement, saying, “The murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman remains one of the most shocking and devastating cases in our nation’s history, and our thoughts are with their families.”
A Durham Constabulary spokesperson confirmed, “A man who was attacked at HMP Frankland in Durham last week has died in hospital this morning. Ian Huntley, 52, was taken to hospital with serious injuries following an incident in the workshop on the morning of Thursday 26 February.”
The spokesperson added that a police investigation into the circumstances is ongoing, with a file being prepared for the Crown Prosecution Service to consider potential charges.
