SOHAM KILLER IAN Huntley has died in hospital after being attacked in the workshop of a maximum security prison.

The 52-year-old suffered severe brain trauma in the attack at HMP Frankland, Durham, on 26 February.

“The murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman remains one of the most shocking and devastating cases in our nation’s history, and our thoughts are with their families,” a UK Ministry of Justice spokesperson said.

Holly Wells (left) and her best friend, Jessica Chapman who were murdered by Ian Huntley. Handout / PA Handout / PA / PA

Huntley, who murdered the 10-year-olds in 2002, had been on life support in hospital after being hit repeatedly over the head by an inmate armed with a metal bar.

His life support was switched off at lunchtime yesterday after brain tests showed he was in a vegetative state, The Sun reported, and he was confirmed dead today.

Murderer and rapist Anthony Russell, 43, reportedly shouted “I’ve done it, I’ve done it” after Huntley was attacked in the recycling area of the prison last week.

“A man who was attacked at HMP Frankland in Durham last week has died in hospital this morning,” said a Durham Constabulary spokesman.

“Ian Huntley, 52, was taken to hospital with serious injuries following an incident in the workshop on the morning of Thursday February 26.

“A police investigation into the circumstances of the incident is ongoing.

“A file is being prepared for the Crown Prosecution Service for consideration for charges,” the statement added.

Huntley murdered Holly and Jessica after they left a family barbecue to buy sweets in Soham, Cambridgeshire, on 4 August 2002.

He dumped their bodies in a ditch.

The former school caretaker’s life sentence recommended he serve at least 40 years for the Soham murders.