Downing Street has criticized what it described as attempts to interfere in British democracy and inflame divisions after U.S. Vice President JD Vance linked the murder of British student Henry Nowak to what he called the "mass invasion of migrants."
The remarks intensified an already heated debate in Britain over policing, public trust, race, and immigration following the fatal stabbing of the 18-year-old in December.
Government officials said Nowak's family had made clear they did not want his death used to fuel further hatred or political division.
Vance described Nowak's killing as evidence of wider civilizational decline and argued that failures to confront immigration had contributed to the circumstances surrounding the case.
His comments came days after the release of bodycam footage showing police handcuffing Nowak as he lay dying after his attacker falsely claimed to be the victim of a racist assault.
The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that Nowak's killer, Vickrum Digwa, was born in Britain.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's office responded by urging respect for the wishes of the Nowak family and stressing that politics should unite people during moments of national tragedy.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy also rejected characterizations of Britain as having a two-tier criminal justice system.
The dispute widened after Elon Musk and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage amplified claims that police had treated the case differently because of concerns about racism.
The case has triggered scrutiny of police conduct and allegations of so-called "two-tier policing."
Starmer has said serious questions remain over how officers handled the incident and whether allegations of racism influenced their actions.
Police leaders have rejected claims of systemic bias but acknowledged that guidance on equality and anti-racism policies will be reviewed.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said public concerns should be taken seriously, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey warned against politicizing Nowak's death.
Violent protests in Southampton earlier this week left eleven police officers and one police dog injured, leading to multiple arrests.
Meanwhile, British officials rejected criticism from both Vance and the U.S. State Department, maintaining that relations between London and Washington remain strong despite public disagreements over the case.