Nottingham attacks: Brother of killer Valdo Calocane tells public inquiry of fears over his mental health
The brother of Valdo Calocane, the perpetrator of the Nottingham attacks in June 2023, has given evidence at a public inquiry, revealing his fears that his sibling might take his own life. Elias Calocane described feeling powerless in the face of his brother's paranoid schizophrenia, which was diagnosed in 2020. He received messages from Valdo as early as 2020 mentioning voices, harm, and 'red rum', which he interpreted as suicidal thoughts rather than threats to others. Elias compiled a detailed document of their interactions from 2017 onwards, hoping it would assist medical professionals, but stated he was never contacted about it. The inquiry heard that the brothers had limited contact in the years leading up to the attacks, with Elias struggling to maintain the relationship due to Valdo's delusions. Elias only learned of the formal diagnosis after the killings. On the night before the attacks, Valdo called Elias, and again early on the morning of 13 June 2023, saying 'it's already done' when asked if he was planning something stupid. Elias later connected the calls to the stabbings upon seeing news reports. Lawyers representing the bereaved families and survivors questioned Elias about his level of contact and response to the calls. The testimony highlighted broader issues around mental health support, communication between families and services, and the events leading to the deaths of Barnaby Webber, Grace O'Malley-Kumar, and Ian Coates, plus the serious injury of three others. The public inquiry continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the attacks and the handling of Calocane's care.