Community gathers in Wolverhampton for vigil to remember beloved father killed in Lidl tragedy
Prayers by candlelight were held at the church
The community have gathered today for a vigil to remember James Singh Jagpal, a victim of the tragic Lidl accident in Wolverhampton.
On the evening of the incident, James had simply popped into Lidl to buy a bottle of wine while his partner of 20 years, Katie, was cooking dinner.
The Lidl store on Finchfield Hill saw a Renault Zoe crash through the front door on Friday, October 23 after the driver, a woman in her 70s, was believed to have suffered a medical incident.
James Jagpal died at the scene and another woman was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
The vigil was held tonight (November 13) at Windmill Church, which is situated next to the Lidl, with members of the community saying prayers by candle light to remember him.
Nikki Ahmed, who worked with James at the Ramada Park Hall Hotel and Spa in Wolverhampton, said: “I knew him when he was at the beginning of his career, just starting out and I still remember how lovely he was now. He was just such a kind man.”
Rachel White and Emma Edwards, who knew James at school, also attended the vigil.
Rachel said: “He was the sort of person that even if you met him once you would remember him. He had such a nice smile and I remember that smile even now.”
Andrew Hodson, the senior leader of Windmill community church, said: “We are so close to where the accident happened and we have heard so many things about people being really hurt by this tragic event. So we decided to put on a vigil where people can come and be in a safe space and light candles as well as say prayers. They can also have a moment of quiet just to reflect on the life of James and those who have been hurt or traumatised by this.
“Katie the partner of James is really pleased it’s happening.”
Dave Insull, a leader at the church, added: “It’s really important to acknowledge the tragedy and many people have been affected by the event. We just wanted a safe space to offer support and prayer.”
In a tribute to James, Katie said: “He was full of life, happy, confident and generous. He never dwelled on the negatives and always tried to see the positives in life.
“He also had an incredibly sensitive and loving side, particularly towards his family and friends. He was never afraid to show his emotions to the people closest to him.
“Above all, James was an amazing dad.”
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