Overview
- Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared via video link at Birmingham Crown Court where Judge Simon Drew KC listed a May 5 trial expected to last two to three weeks.
- He was remanded in custody with a further hearing scheduled for January 16, and he did not enter pleas or apply for bail.
- Prosecutors have charged Rafael with murder, 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 say the November 7 stabbing on Smallbrook Queensway was unprovoked and have increased high-visibility patrols while appealing for information about Rafael’s movements.
- Katie Fox’s family issued a tribute describing her as “beautiful” and a “shining light” and asked for privacy as mourners leave flowers at the scene.