A 34-year-old woman has died following a horrifying stabbing outside one of the UK’s busiest train stations.
The woman, who suffered a severe neck injury during the attack near Birmingham New Street station on Friday night, passed away in hospital despite efforts to save her. West Midlands Police confirmed her death over the weekend.
Fatal Stabbing Sparks Shock in City Centre
Emergency services were called shortly before 9pm on Friday after the woman was attacked on Smallbrook Queensway, just outside the main entrance of the bustling train hub. Paramedics rushed her to the hospital, where she was initially described as being in critical condition.
Sadly, her injuries proved fatal. A police cordon quickly sealed off the scene, with a forensic tent erected as detectives launched a murder investigation. Buses were rerouted, and traffic was heavily disrupted throughout the weekend.
Man Charged as Police Seek Witnesses
A 21-year-old man, Djeison Rafael, was arrested shortly after the incident near the scene. He was originally charged with attempted murder and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday. Police have confirmed that in light of the victim’s death, charges will be reviewed and likely upgraded.
“Extra officers will be around Birmingham city centre to offer reassurance as we understand this is a worrying incident,” West Midlands Police said in a statement.
The force is now appealing for anyone who may have seen Rafael on the evening of 7 November, describing him as wearing:
- An all-grey tracksuit
- A black hat
- Trainers
- A rucksack
Investigators are keen to trace his movements before the attack and urge any witnesses to come forward.
An ordinary Friday evening turned into a nightmare in the heart of Birmingham as a woman suffered a fatal stabbing near New Street Station. Police have launched a murder probe and are urging the public to assist in piecing together the suspect’s movements.
Unprovoked Violence Leaves Community Reeling
Police believe the attack was unprovoked. “We believe this was an unprovoked attack and are working to understand why it happened. We will have officers in the area today to continue our investigation and provide reassurance,” said Detective Inspector James Nix.
Authorities have also confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the attack at this time.
Home Secretary Responds to ‘Shocking’ Incident
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who represents Birmingham Ladywood, expressed her dismay over the violent act.
“I am shocked to hear a woman was stabbed in Birmingham in an unprovoked attack. My thoughts are with the victim, her family and friends. I thank the police for their swift action to arrest a suspect. I urge any witnesses to contact West Midlands Police,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Public Urged to Help Police Investigation
West Midlands Police are continuing their appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant information. They’ve urged members of the public who were in the area or have dashcam or mobile footage to get in touch.
Those with information should contact the force by dialling 101, quoting log 5503 of 7 November, or by visiting the Major Incident Public Portal.
As the investigation progresses, the tragic death of the woman serves as a chilling reminder of the random and senseless violence that can erupt without warning, even in the busiest, most public of places.
The UK News Blog will continue to follow this developing story as police prepare to lay fresh charges in the wake of the woman’s death.
