City Centre Stabbing Victim Named
The woman who died after being stabbed in the neck in Birmingham city centre has been identified as Katie Fox. The incident occurred shortly before 9pm on November 7, on Smallbrook Queensway.
Accused Appears in Court
Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Monday morning charged with her murder. During the hearing, Rafael wore a grey t-shirt and was flanked by two officers who removed his handcuffs. The defendant interrupted the six-minute hearing several times and was told to remain quiet and face forward by District Judge John Bristow.
Additional Charges
- Two counts of causing actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7
- Possession of a Stanley blade on November 7
- Assaulting a detention escort officer on November 8
Rafael, from Rosedale Avenue in Smethwick, was informed that the magistrates' court would not take pleas due to the severity of the offences and his case will be sent to the Crown Court on November 12.
District Judge Bristow said: “I’m going to send you and your charges to the crown court on November 12.”
Police Appeal for Information
West Midlands Police requested anyone with information about the incident or Rafael’s movements to come forward. Rafael was described as a black British national, last seen wearing an all-grey tracksuit, black hat, trainers, and carrying a rucksack on the evening of the incident.
Author's summary: Katie Fox was fatally stabbed in Birmingham’s city centre; Djeison Rafael faces multiple charges and will appear in crown court next month.