Ian Huntley, one of Britain's most notorious child killers, has died in prison at age 52, days after being attacked by a fellow inmate. The former school caretaker was convicted in 2003 for the murders of 10-year-olds Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, a case that shocked the nation.

Huntley had been on life support after being struck repeatedly over the head with a metal bar at Frankland prison on February 26. The attack came from Anthony Russell, a murderer and rapist, according to British media reports. Huntley had survived multiple previous attempts on his life while incarcerated.

The 2002 murders of the two best friends had transfixed Britain for weeks. After vanishing from Soham village, thousands joined the search before hikers discovered their remains. The case led to major reforms in child protection policies and background checks for school staff.