Fact check: Https://news.sky.com/story/david-knowles-uk-counter-terror-police-called-in-over-death-of-daily-telegraph-journalist-in-gibraltar-13213545

1. Summary of the results

1. Summary of the results:

David Knowles, a 32-year-old Telegraph journalist known for his Ukraine coverage, died suddenly in Gibraltar on September 8, 2024, while attending a football match. While UK Counter-Terror Police are involved, the Royal Gibraltar Police (RGP) explicitly stated there are "no specific concerns" regarding the death. The cause is currently listed as suspected cardiac arrest, with post-mortem results pending.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints:

• The involvement of Counter-Terror Police, while potentially alarming, was requested specifically for their "capability and experience in international enquiries," not due to suspicion of foul play
• Knowles was previously sanctioned by Russia in 2023 for his Ukraine reporting, and his podcast "Ukraine: The Latest" had reached nearly 100 million downloads
• His colleague Francis Dearnley specifically warned against speculation linking his death to his journalism
• The investigation is being conducted with full transparency, with multiple agencies involved and regular public updates

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement:

The headline's emphasis on "Counter-Terror Police" involvement could lead readers to assume suspicious circumstances, when in fact:

• The RGP explicitly stated there are no specific concerns
• Counter-terrorism involvement appears to be purely procedural
• The death is being treated as a medical emergency (suspected cardiac arrest)
• Both law enforcement and colleagues have actively discouraged speculation about potential links to Knowles's journalistic work

Those who might benefit from sensationalizing this story include:

• Media outlets seeking increased readership through dramatic headlines
• Political actors who might use this incident to push narratives about threats to journalists
• Conspiracy theorists who might attempt to link this to international tensions with Russia