Overview
- The trial is scheduled for May 5 at Birmingham Crown Court and is expected to last two to three weeks, with a further hearing on January 16.
- Defendant Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared via video link from HMP Long Lartin, spoke only to confirm his name, and remains remanded in custody.
- Rafael is charged with murder and also faces two counts of causing actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7, possession of a Stanley blade on November 7, and assaulting a detention escort officer on November 8.
- West Midlands Police have increased high‑visibility patrols in the city centre and are appealing for witnesses to Rafael’s movements, saying he likely wore an all‑grey tracksuit, black hat, trainers and a rucksack on November 7.
- Katie Fox’s family described her as a “shining light,” thanked emergency staff and Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s ITU, and requested privacy to grieve.