'We must work together to eliminate the scourge of knife crime' - Birmingham Council leader on ‘appalling attack’ in city centre
Birmingham Council’s leader has said actions will be taken to ensure the city centre “remains safe” following a fatal stabbing on Friday night.
Katie Fox, 34, died after being stabbed in the neck in an unprovoked attack in Smallbrook Queensway just before 9pm on November 7.
Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday and has been charged with her murder.
The incident has deeply shocked Birmingham, with heartbreaking tributes being paid online and concerns raised over safety.
Birmingham Council was yesterday asked whether the city centre is still a safe place to visit, with leader Coun John Cotton responding by saying he was “shocked and deeply saddened by this appalling attack”.
“My thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved Katie,” he said.
“The council continues to work closely with West Midlands Police and other partners to ensure that the city centre remains a safe and welcoming place.
“We remain committed to tackling knife crime through coordinated prevention, education, and enforcement efforts.”
Coun Cotton added: “We must work together to do all that we can to eliminate the scourge of knife crime.”
Earlier today, West Midlands Police acknowledged it was a “worrying incident” and said extra officers would be around Birmingham city centre to offer reassurance.
“A 34-year-old was taken to hospital with a serious injury to her neck after she was stabbed on Smallbrook Queensway shortly before 9pm,” a police force spokesperson said.
“She has since tragically died in hospital.
“Our thoughts are with her loved ones and specially trained investigators are supporting her family.”
They added: “We are still keen to hear from anyone who knows more about what happened or the movements of Rafael, who we believe was wearing an all-grey tracksuit, black hat, trainers and rucksack on Friday evening, November 7.”
Rafael, of Rosedale Avenue in Smethwick, is also charged with two counts of causing actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7, possession of a Stanley blade and assaulting a detention escort officer.
