'Biggest turnout ever' for Ryan Passey bike ride 'proves the people of Stourbridge demand justice' eight years after he stabbed to death

Campaigners believe the massive turnout proves feelings are still running high eight years after 24-year-old Ryan Passey from Quarry Bank was stabbed to death in a nightclub in Stourbridge.

Family friend and former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb described today's event as "very emotional".

She told the Express & Star: "This was by far the biggest Ride for Justice as well as having more bikers than before there were more people who came out houses to show their support.

"On Stourbridge ring road, where they did five laps before going down the high street, there were people lining the route. It was an emotional day but it also sent a clear message that our community have not forgotten what happened to Ryan.

"Eight years and his family still have no justice and this massive demonstration of support shows the campaign is stronger than ever."

The former Conservative MP, who raised Ryan's case in Parliament, added: "The family have become more than just constituents over the years and are now friends. I am in awe of the dignity they have shown after failing to get any kind of justice for Ryan.

"I'd like to thank John Hill for organising this event again, he is a proper legend for ensuring the Ride for Justice is such an impressive event every year."

Ryan died after being knifed in the chest in Chicago's nightclub whilst enjoying a post-match pint with his friends. Despite a man admitting he delivered the fatal wound he walked free from court after being cleared of murder and manslaughter. 

West Midlands Police's murder investigation drew heavy criticism after the verdicts and led to West Yorkshire Police conducting an independent review to pinpoint identifying changes that needed to happen. 

The review made 18 recommendations and uncovered several new lines of inquiry. 

In July 2023, West Midlands Police announced they were reopening the investigation into Ryan's death.