“This is a tragedy that shocks the consciousness” - Nottingham reacts to news of city attacks

Nottingham is a resilient city which has been through a lot over the years. However, yesterday’s attacks left many feeling a deep sense of grief, panic and fear as we collectively tried to process the events over 24 hours on Tuesday, June 13. However there is a collective sense of togetherness and also, determination that the city will get through this.

Two Nottingham University students were killed on Ilkeston Road along with a third person who has yet to be named. A stolen van drove into pedestrians on Milton Street in the city centre before a man was arrested by police. Police say they are ‘keeping an open mind’ about the motive which has not been revealed yet.

However, the Chief Constable did state at the press conference that: “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with the attacks and I can reassure the public that it is safe to visit the city centre – though there may be some road restrictions as we continue to establish what has happened.”

Meanwhile, parts of the city thatwere cordoned off with armed police standing guard in certain locations are now open again. The city has a strong police presence in certain areas. Flowers have been left by the Council House which has the flag at half mast today as a sign of respect.

A book of condolences has been opened for mourners and St. James Church has become a centre for anyone in need of support.

We visited the city centre to talk to residents about how this has made them feel in their own city. We found a mix of reactions but one remaining, a sense of intense shock.

“I'm shocked by the attacks. It felt so disorientating trying to work out what happened, it was all over the city. I think that uncertainty is why I felt a bit more unsafe than usual,” said Nic from Mapperely.

Despite living on Mandala Street which was one of the streets affected by the attack, Emily Catherine said she feels safe but the shock would shake anyone. “I feel safe, I believe that this was an unusual incident in many years of living and loving living in Nottingham.”

“However, the shock of the brutality of the murders and the nonsensical pattern and the lives lost would shake anyone, but I think all first responders acted quickly and brilliantly and have been moved by our community being sensitive and supportive to each other.

She added: “I also think that many people are looking to make sense of it, know a motive, which will help them heal, and that speculation of motive circulating is becoming divisive and insensitive to the loved ones of those affected.

Alex Faulkner from the Meadows commented: “This is a tragedy that shocks the consciousness, but I know in my heart that Nottingham will come together and face this as one. What we need now is solidarity, not only in the face of this tragedy but also to stand up to people who want to use this tragedy to divide us.”