Six jailed for murder of dad in Birmingham park as family pay tribute to 'beloved' father

Michael Obasi was out for an evening walk on March 14 when he was attacked and beaten by a group of three men and three teenage boys.

The 38-year-old was reported missing by his family.

Two days later, his body was found in the park by a dog walker. 

A post mortem concluded that Michael died from multiple injuries following a violent attack carried out by the group. 

Detectives trawled through hours of CCTV footage from the area and identified the group.

Manuel Filipache, Ion Morar, Ion Calin along with three teenagers who cannot be named for legal reasons were all arrested from addresses in Aston.

The CCTV captured a callous moment where the three older men re-enacted the horrific attack on Michael while they were standing on Normandy Street. 

They were seen chatting and laughing animatedly with each other. 

CCTV obtained from two shops in Perry Barr also showed Manuel Filipache and Ion Morar using Michael’s card moments after the attack. The card was used multiple times.

Following the arrests, items belonging to Michael were found at addresses linked to the group, including his torch.

DNA from two of the teenagers was found on Michael’s t-shirt and rucksack.

During police investigations, Manuel Filipache, Ion Morar and Ion Calin were identified as also being involved in a violent robbery that took place at Walsall Train Station on January 15, 2024.

A man was targeted by the group as he walked through the station and was repeatedly punched and kicked.

When questioned about the robbery at the train station, Manuel Filipache claimed he attacked the man in self-defence, fearing he was about to be attacked - but the CCTV footage did not back up his claims.

At Birmingham Crown Court in February, all six were found guilty of murder and robbery. 

Manuel Filipache, Ion Morar and Ion Calin were also found guilty of the attempted robbery of a man at Walsall train station.

Today, all six were jailed at Birmingham Crown Court, and given the following sentences:

1. Manuel Filipache was jailed for a minimum of 29 years.

2. Ion Morar was jailed for a minimum of 25 years.

3. Ion Calin was jailed for a minimum of 24 years

4. A 17-year-old boy was jailed for a minimum of 15 years.

5. A 16-year-old boy was jailed for a minimum of 14 years.

6. A 15-year-old boy was jailed for a minimum of 9 years.

'Cherished by everyone who knew him'

The family of Michael have paid tribute to the 'devoted father': “Michael was a beloved partner, dad, son, brother and uncle who was cherished by everyone who knew him.

"His beautiful smile and gentle spirit brought warmth and joy to those around him and his loss is something we struggle with every single day. He was a devoted father who doted on his little boy, they were so close, always laughing and playing together.

“On the day he was taken from us, Michael had spent time helping his mum with her car, something he always did willingly, as helping family meant everything to him. Later, he went out for a walk, likely to try to beat his dad in their daily step count competition, and possibly to practise his drone flying skills, walking around a park where he spent many a day, a park full of fond family memories.

“What began as a normal day; tragically ended in heartbreak when he met with unimaginable evil. This tragedy is the result of a senseless and callous act by individuals with complete disregard for human life. While we hope justice will prevail, no amount of justice will ever bring Michael back or ease the pain of his loss.

"We are deeply grateful to the police and CPS for their dedication and efforts in investigating Michael's death. Our heartfelt thanks also go to the officers who have supported us with compassion throughout the investigation and during the trial.

“We remember Michael for the love, kindness and light he brought into our lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Michael.”

Detective Inspector Phil Poole from West Midlands Police's Homicide Team, said: “What happened to Michael was truly awful. He has been taken away in a such a cruel way from a family who loved him dearly.

“The group throughout the trial have shown no remorse for their actions. Instead, they have acted in a disgusting manner and have put Michael’s family through the pain of a trial.

“It’s heart-breaking that Perry Hall Park was once a place where Michael and his family made happy memories together and that has now been taken away from them.

“I know this sentence will not bring Michael back, but I do hope that knowing they will spend years in prison, brings some closure to the family.”