Family Honors Grace O’Malley-Kumar at Gallantry Awards Ceremony

The family of Grace O’Malley-Kumar, a 19-year-old student who was fatally stabbed in a Nottingham attack last year, paid tribute to her at a recent awards ceremony. Grace was posthumously recognized with a medal for gallantry for her bravery in trying to protect her friend, Barnaby Webber, during the incident on a night out in 2023.

Grace was killed when she intervened to save Barnaby, who was also just 19 years old, during a violent attack. The assailant, Valdo Amissao Mendes Calocane, a 31-year-old dual national of Guinea-Bissau and Portugal, has a documented history of mental health issues. In addition to the stabbings, Calocane drove his vehicle into another group of people, resulting in several injuries. The tragic event also claimed the life of Ian Coates, aged 65.

Acknowledging Bravery and Loss

At the ceremony, held in honor of the latest Gallantry Awards, King Charles recognized Grace as one of 20 individuals awarded for acts of bravery. Her mother, Dr. Sinead O’Malley, described the honor as “very bittersweet,” revealing the family’s mixed emotions of pride and sorrow. “We feel privileged and proud of Grace,” she stated, reflecting on her daughter’s character.

Dr. O’Malley expressed hope that the award would not only highlight Grace’s exceptional qualities but also bring attention to the systemic failures that contributed to the tragic events of that night. “Grace was beautiful and brave in life, and now it’s recognised that she was courageous and selfless to the end in her death,” Dr. O’Malley remarked.

“Please, never forget Grace. Think of her as a shining example of humanity, bravery, selflessness and kindness.”

Grace’s brother, James O’Malley-Kumar, added to the family’s heartfelt tribute, describing his sister as a “warrior.” The 18-year-old conveyed the haunting thoughts surrounding his sister’s final moments, noting the unimaginable pain she must have endured as she confronted her attacker in a desperate bid to save her friend.

Aftermath and Legal Proceedings

Following the attack, Valdo Calocane was found guilty of manslaughter by diminished responsibility and has been placed under an indefinite hospital order. His actions have sparked discussions around mental health support and public safety in the UK.

As the community continues to mourn the loss of Grace and Barnaby, their families hope that the bravery displayed by both young individuals will serve as a reminder of the profound impact that courage and selflessness can have, even in the face of tragedy.