Police Pledge Action After Birmingham City Centre Stabbings
West Midlands Police has issued a crucial safety pledge following two separate stabbings that have shaken Birmingham city centre within a week, leaving one woman dead and a teenage boy with serious injuries.
The force has committed to increasing high-visibility patrols throughout the city centre, particularly as the area welcomes visitors for the popular Frankfurt Christmas Market and festive shopping period.
Tragic Incidents Rock the Community
The first incident occurred on Friday, November 7, when Katie Fox, 34, was stabbed at a bus stop on Smallbrook Queensway. She tragically died from her injuries.
Djeison Rafael, a 21-year-old of no fixed address, has been charged with her murder. He appeared at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, November 12, and a trial date has been set for May 5 next year.
In a separate incident on Thursday, November 13 at around 8pm, a 17-year-old boy was stabbed near the Bullring shopping centre, close to the iconic Bull bronze sculpture.
The West Midlands Ambulance Service dispatched one ambulance and a MERIT trauma doctor with a Critical Care Paramedic. The teenager was treated for potentially serious injuries before being transported to hospital.
In connection with this attack, five arrests have been made. Those detained include a 14-year-old on suspicion of attempted murder, three 18-year-olds on suspicion of wounding, and a 22-year-old man on suspicion of assisting an offender.
Police Response and Safety Reassurance
Acknowledging that people are "understandably worried", West Midlands Police has moved to reassure the public. A force spokesperson stated they are increasing patrols from Friday, November 14.
"We want the city centre to be a safe and welcoming place for you," the spokesperson said, confirming that high-visibility patrols have been stepped up and will continue around the clock in the coming days.
The policing operation will be supported by resources from across the region, as well as partners including Birmingham City Council and safety officers from the Central Business Improvement District.
The force also highlighted its use of Project Servator deployments, which involve both highly-visible specialist officers and plain clothes officers trained to spot signs of criminal planning. The public is encouraged to speak with officers on patrol to share any concerns or information.
