Student Fatally Stabbed At Leicester University Campus

Leicester’s De Montfort University was the scene of tragedy on Tuesday evening, February 3, 2026, as a student in his 20s was fatally stabbed near the campus, sparking a major police investigation and leaving the local community in shock. The incident unfolded just after 5pm, when police were called to Oxford Street, close to the junction with Bonners Lane, following reports that a man had collapsed in the street. According to Leicestershire Police, it was soon established that the man had been stabbed and, despite the best efforts of paramedics and medical staff, he died at Leicester Royal Infirmary a short time later.

The East Midlands Ambulance Service described a significant emergency response, stating, “We sent a paramedic in an ambulance car, three crewed ambulances and a responder from the air ambulance was also in attendance.” This rapid deployment underscored the gravity of the situation, as first responders raced to save the young man’s life.

By Wednesday morning, February 4, 2026, police had launched a murder investigation and confirmed the arrest of an 18-year-old man on suspicion of murder. The suspect remains in police custody as inquiries continue. Detective Inspector Lorna Granville, the senior investigating officer on the case, explained, “We are currently piecing together exactly what has occurred on the corner of Oxford Street and Bonners Lane between, what is reported, as two men involved in a confrontation. One of the men is believed to have been stabbed and has then collapsed in the street. Despite the best efforts of medical staff he died in hospital.”

Police believe the victim and the suspect were involved in a direct altercation, and that the assailant fled the scene before officers arrived. CCTV from the area is being reviewed, and officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage to come forward. “We know a lot of people came to the aid of the victim before emergency services arrived and we want to thank them for their help. If you were one of these people and you haven’t yet spoken to police, please make contact with us,” said Detective Inspector Granville.

The aftermath of the incident saw a large cordon established around the university campus, with multiple road closures causing significant disruption to Leicester’s city centre. Streets including Oxford Street, Carlton Street, Grange Lane, and Bonners Lane were closed to both vehicles and pedestrians as police worked to preserve the scene and gather evidence. The usually busy area was eerily quiet, with police and university security officers patrolling and maintaining the cordon.

Leicestershire Police were quick to clarify the nature of the attack, emphasizing that this was “not a mass stabbing” and urging the public not to speculate as investigations continued. On social media, the force stated, “Speculation is unhelpful, but we can confirm that this was not a mass stabbing. Further details will be published shortly on our website and social media channels.”

Community leaders and university officials have responded with messages of support and caution. Professor Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University, expressed the institution’s grief and solidarity in a public statement: “We are devastated by the tragic death of one of our students. Our thoughts are with everyone who is affected by what has happened. We are offering direct support to students, staff and the family of the victim. We are working with Leicestershire Police as they investigate this tragic incident. Thank you for the messages of support we have been receiving from the community of Leicester: it is a city that knows how to stand together in moments like this.”

Labour MP for Leicester West, Liz Kendall, also weighed in, urging calm and patience as facts emerged. “I am aware that a serious incident took place on De Montfort University Campus yesterday evening, and that a police cordon remains in place this morning. There are no further details currently and I would urge everyone to refrain from speculating whilst investigations continue. De Montfort University are providing support to students and staff who witnessed the event. My thoughts are with those affected by what has happened.”

The university has mobilized support services for students and staff, particularly those who witnessed the incident or have been affected by the heightened police presence and disruption. In addition to counseling and direct outreach, the university is working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of its community.

As news of the stabbing spread, local residents voiced their concern over safety in Leicester. Steven, a 75-year-old resident, reflected on the changing atmosphere in the city: “I don’t know where is safe anymore, it’s an everyday occurrence now. I’ve lived here for 30 odd years and it’s never been this bad. It’s getting worse.” Another local, Oliver Rhodes, 22, described the uncertainty and confusion that gripped the area in the hours after the incident: “I’ve heard it’s a stabbing, but I’ve got no idea to be honest. I’ve just been scrolling the news all morning trying to figure out what’s going on.”

Students at De Montfort University echoed these sentiments, with one, Prince Sandhu, 25, noting the lack of information and the visible increase in police activity: “I live nearby and have seen lots of police, but I wasn’t around last night when it happened, so I don’t know what’s been going on. Nobody I’ve spoken to knows either. It seems like a lot of police.”

Police have assured the public that reassurance patrols will continue in the area in the coming days, and have encouraged anyone with concerns to approach officers directly. Detective Inspector Granville emphasized the importance of community cooperation: “If you can help in any way, call 101 and quote incident number 495 of February 3.”

This tragedy has not only shaken the immediate university community but also reignited broader discussions about urban safety and the support structures available for students and residents. While the investigation is still in its early stages, the collaborative response from emergency services, university staff, and local authorities reflects a determination to provide answers and prevent further violence.

As Leicester comes to terms with this loss, the city’s resilience and solidarity are being put to the test. For now, the focus remains on supporting those affected, ensuring a thorough investigation, and restoring a sense of security to the heart of the community.