Novichok Tragedy Inquiry Set to Open
An independent inquiry into the deadly Novichok poisoning of Dawn Sturgess kicks off on October 14, 2024. The panel will probe the chilling links between Dawn’s death and the earlier attempted murder of ex-Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury.
The UK government points the finger firmly at Russia. Highly classified evidence will be unveiled during the investigation.
Who Was Dawn Sturgess?
Dawn Sturgess, a 44-year-old mother of three, died at Salisbury Hospital on July 8, 2018. She was fatally poisoned after spraying what she thought was perfume—a bottle contaminated with a “significant amount” of the deadly nerve agent Novichok. Her partner, Charlie Rowley, found the bottle dumped in a charity bin just days before.
Dawn collapsed at the couple’s home in Amesbury on June 30 and later passed away. Rowley was also poisoned but survived after hospital treatment.
What Is Novichok?
Novichok is a brutal Soviet-era nerve agent developed in the 1970s-80s. It disrupts the nervous system with tiny amounts proving fatal. The 2018 attacks involved liquid Novichok, easily absorbed through skin. Handling this toxin requires extreme care, sealed containers, and protective gear.
The Skripal Poisoning That Shocked Britain
On March 4, 2018, Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia were poisoned in Salisbury after Novichok was smeared on the door handle of their home. Both fell seriously ill but survived intensive medical care.
The UK blamed Russia, citing Skripal’s past as a double agent for Britain. Kremlin boss Vladimir Putin strongly denied any involvement.
- Russian spies Anatoliy Chepiga and Alexander Mishkin were caught on CCTV near the scene.
- A third suspect, Denis Sergeev, is also linked to the attack.
Why This Inquiry Matters
The probe aims to uncover the full story behind Dawn Sturgess’s death. Originally planned as a coroner’s inquest, it was upgraded to a full independent inquiry to allow access to top-secret intelligence.
Led by Lord Hughes, the inquiry will hear from NHS staff, police, and intelligence experts. The Skripals are not expected to testify.
The hearings will take place over several weeks in Salisbury and London. Parts of the evidence will be held in secret, but the public can watch with a time delay via video link.
A final report is expected in 2025, aiming to give Dawn’s family and the nation the answers they deserve about this tragic saga.
