🔗 Share this article

The female victim who was stabbed in the neck in an unprovoked attack at a bus stop in Birmingham has passed away, police have confirmed.

The victim, aged 34 years, came under attack on Smallbrook Queensway street, just outside Bullring shopping complex, shortly before 9 PM GMT Friday evening, according to police statements.

The suspect, 21, was presented at Birmingham Magistrates Court Monday morning, facing charges for the attack.

He was previously accused of attempted murder however after the victim's passing the charge has been updated to include murder.

Police Response

The force said officers would be around the city centre on Monday to offer reassurance, and investigators were supporting the woman's family.

Investigators are requesting any eyewitnesses who may have seen Mr Rafael, who is described as British citizen of Black ethnicity, and is believed to have been wearing an all-grey tracksuit, dark headwear, trainers with a backpack.

Attack Site Details

The knife attack occurred outside Bullring retail complex, opposite primary access point of New Street railway station.

Law enforcement confirmed they classified it as "unprovoked attack" and Det Insp James Nix said they were working to understand the motive behind.

Witness Accounts

An area worker, employed in the vicinity, recounted paramedic and police activity after completing her work period around 10 PM on Friday.

She characterized the location as "quite chaotic", and said co-workers reported hearing loud disturbances at about 21:00.

"Many co-workers use transit services, ride the tramline... our security is compromised essentially, in the downtown area."

Ashley Birks, 25, resident of Stoke, said he came the city fairly regularly visiting his partner who lives in the city, expressing concern regarding the incident.

"It causes concern for my girlfriend," he stated.

"She doesn't drive employed at all of the big music venues... and to think a totally random act occurred, you know, it's horrible."