Overview
- The 19-year-old medical student is named in the latest Gallantry Awards list, with an official citation praising her "exceptional courage in the face of extreme danger."
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed her actions as a powerful example of heroism, and the medal will be presented to her family.
- O’Malley‑Kumar was killed on 13 June 2023 after intervening to protect her friend Barnaby Webber; caretaker Ian Coates also died, and attacker Valdo Calocane is detained under an indefinite hospital order after admitting manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
- The award follows a public campaign for top civilian recognition, previous tributes including posthumous University of Nottingham degrees, and cross‑party political support.
- Her parents and brother welcomed the recognition at a London press conference, calling her a "true patriot" and reiterating calls for accountability as a statutory public inquiry examines multi‑agency failings.