Woman Knifed in Birmingham Bus Shelter Attack Succumbs to Injuries
A woman who was stabbed in the neck in an unprovoked attack at a bus stop within Birmingham has died, police have confirmed.
The victim, aged 34 years, came under attack in Smallbrook Queensway, right beside the Bullring shopping centre, just prior to 21:00 GMT Friday evening, according to police statements.
Djeison Rafael, twenty-one, was presented at Birmingham court Monday morning, charged over the attack.
He was previously accused with attempted murder but following the woman's death the charge has been updated to include murder.
Police Response
Authorities stated police personnel will remain around the city centre on Monday providing public assurance, while detectives assisted the woman's family.
Detectives are appealing any eyewitnesses who might have observed the accused, identified as a Black British national, reportedly dressed in grey athletic wear, black hat, trainers and rucksack.
Attack Site Details
The knife attack occurred outside Bullring retail complex, opposite primary access point to Birmingham New Street station.
Law enforcement confirmed they were treating it as a random violent act with investigators stating efforts continue to determine why it happened.
Eyewitness Reports
An area worker, who works nearby, recounted the emergency response when she finished her shift at about 22:00 Friday night.
She described the scene as extremely disorderly, adding that co-workers reported hearing loud disturbances at about 21:00.
"A lot of my colleagues use transit services, ride the tramline... our security is compromised fundamentally, in the downtown area."
Ashley Birks, twenty-five, resident of Stoke, said he came the city quite frequently to see his girlfriend resident there, expressing concern about what had happened.
"It makes me worried about my partner," he said.
"She doesn't drive and works at major concert locations... considering something completely unprovoked occurred, understandably, it's horrible."
