Anti-terror police join police investigation into sudden death of British journalist covering Ukraine

Britain's anti-terror police have joined the investigation into the sudden death of a Telegraph journalist who presented an award-winning podcast about Ukraine.

David Knowles, 32, who hosted the successful weekday podcast “Ukraine: The Latest,” died on Sunday from suspected cardiac arrest while on vacation in Gibraltar.

The Royal Gibraltar Police has confirmed that detectives have requested specialist assistance from the UK Counter-Terrorism Police in investigating the circumstances of the sudden death.

Investigators said they made the request because of the “existing capacity and experience of the anti-terror police in dealing with international investigations.” However, there are currently no specific concerns about his death.

An autopsy is scheduled to take place on Thursday. The journalist's family is being supported by specialist officials.

A statement from the British Overseas Territory's investigators said: “The Royal Gibraltar Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of 32-year-old British national David Knowles on Sunday 8 September while on holiday in Gibraltar.

“His Majesty's Coroner in Gibraltar has been informed and a coroner's inquest is underway. The deceased's next of kin have been informed and a specialist RGP family liaison officer has been appointed. Arrangements have been made for a post mortem examination to be carried out today.

“A request has been made to the UK police for 'mutual aid' support, although there are currently no specific concerns in relation to the death.

“Following the RGP's request for mutual assistance, UK Counter Terrorism Police detectives were tasked with assisting the RGP's investigations, given their existing skills and experience in dealing with international investigations.”

Mr Knowles worked at The Telegraph since 2020, initially as Deputy Head of Social Media and then as Head of Social Media until he took over the management of audio development in June 2023.

His podcast on the Russia-Ukraine war was a huge success with almost 100 million downloads.

Mr Knowles was placed on a list of people banned from entering Russia last year, along with many other British journalists, because of their work covering the conflict.

A spokesman for his family said: “We have noted the RPG's statement on David today, particularly the assertion that 'there are no specific concerns about death at this time'.”

“We do not wish to comment further while authorities continue their investigation and ask that the family's privacy be respected.”

This week we pay tribute The Telegraph Editor Chris Evans said: “David was exuberant and innovative. He was passionate about the cause of the Ukrainian people and their attempts to repel the Russian aggressor.

“Without his enthusiasm, the Ukraine podcast would not have been half as successful. He was also a gentle, sensitive person who inspired deep sympathy in his colleagues.”

A spokesman for the anti-terror police confirmed that they had received a request for assistance from the Royal Gibraltar Police.

“Due to existing capacity and experience in dealing with international investigations, the RGP is supported by officers from the anti-terror police,” a spokesman added.

“RGP remains in charge of the investigation and any further enquiries in this regard should be directed to them.”