Novichok Bottle Found in Amesbury: Police Close In on Nerve Agent Source
Counter-terror cops believe they have cracked the case behind the deadly Novichok poisoning that claimed the life of Dawn Sturgess, 44, from Durrington. Dawn died in hospital on Sunday, 8 July, after exposure to the nerve agent.
Novichok Confirmed in Bottle at Suspect’s Home
Detectives hunting for answers recovered a small bottle during a raid on Charlie Rowley’s house in Amesbury on 11 July. Rowley, Dawn’s partner, 45, was also hospitalised but has since woken from a critical state and is now stable.
Tests at Porton Down have confirmed the liquid in the bottle is indeed Novichok. Scientists are now working to discover if it matches the nerve agent used to poison Sergei and Yulia Skripal back in March. This remains a key focus for investigators.
Murder Inquiry and Ongoing Investigation
Following Dawn’s tragic death, police launched a murder investigation. A post-mortem is scheduled for Tuesday, 17 July, with an inquest opening in Salisbury on Thursday, 19 July.
Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, said: “This is a significant step forward. But we can’t say for sure if more of the substance is out there, so cordons and searches will remain for some time to protect the public and aid the investigation.”
About 100 detectives from the Counter-Terrorism Policing Network are working alongside Wiltshire Police. Officers have interviewed Charlie Rowley and will continue speaking with him as hospital staff manage his care.
Public Safety Warning and Support
- The risk to the public in Salisbury and Amesbury remains low.
- No further illness cases tied to this incident have been reported.
- Public Health England advises people NOT to pick up suspicious items — especially syringes, needles, or strange bottles made from metal, plastic, or glass.
- The official advice: “If you didn’t drop it, don’t pick it up.”
- A dedicated health helpline is available on 0800 092 0410.
- If you have any information, contact counter-terror police on 0800 789 321.
Local communities in Amesbury and Salisbury have been praised for their support and cooperation with officers during this serious investigation.
