Female Victim Stabbed in Birmingham City Bus Shelter Attack Dies
The female victim who was stabbed in the neck in an unprovoked attack near a bus shelter in Birmingham has died, police have confirmed.
The deceased woman, who was 34, came under attack in Smallbrook Queensway, just outside Bullring shopping complex, just prior to 21:00 GMT Friday evening, according to police statements.
Djeison Rafael, twenty-one, was presented at Birmingham court on Monday, charged over the attack.
He was previously accused of attempted murder however after the victim's passing charges were upgraded to murder.
Law Enforcement Actions
Authorities stated police personnel will remain around the city centre on Monday providing public assurance, and investigators were supporting the victim's relatives.
Detectives are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the accused, who is described as British citizen of Black ethnicity, reportedly dressed in grey athletic wear, black hat, trainers with a backpack.
Attack Site Details
The knife attack occurred near Bullring retail complex, across from primary access point of New Street railway station.
Law enforcement confirmed they classified it as "unprovoked attack" with investigators stating efforts continue to determine the motive behind.
Witness Accounts
Shalini Doal, who works nearby, described the emergency response after completing her work period around 10 PM on Friday.
She characterized the location as extremely disorderly, and said co-workers reported hearing loud disturbances at about 21:00.
"Many co-workers use transit services, ride the tramline... our security is compromised fundamentally, here in the city centre."
Ashley Birks, twenty-five, resident of Stoke, mentioned visiting to Birmingham fairly regularly visiting his partner who lives in the city, and was concerned regarding the incident.
"It makes me worried for my girlfriend," he stated.
"She doesn't drive and works at major concert locations... and to think a totally random act occurred, you know, it's terrible."
