Midland University 'Devastated' After Student Fatally Stabbed Near Campus
A Midland university has said it is "devastated" after one of its students was fatally stabbed just yards from the campus in a tragic incident that has shocked the local community. The stabbing occurred on Tuesday evening, February 3, in Oxford Street, Leicester, close to the junction with Bonners Lane near De Montfort University (DMU).
Police Investigation Underway Following Fatal Confrontation
Leicestershire Police were called to the scene at approximately 5pm after reports that a man in his 20s had collapsed following what was described as a "confrontation" with another individual. The victim, who was later confirmed by DMU to be one of its students, was rushed to Leicester Royal Infirmary but was pronounced dead a short time later despite the best efforts of medical staff.
In a statement released by the university, Vice-Chancellor Professor Katie Normington expressed profound sorrow, stating: "We are devastated to confirm the tragic death of one of our students. Our thoughts are with everyone who is affected by what has happened. We are offering direct support to students, staff and the family of the victim."
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Chaotic Scene
Several eyewitnesses have come forward with harrowing accounts of the incident. A DMU student, who wished to remain anonymous, reported seeing a man receiving CPR on the pavement across from The Bowling Green pub in Oxford Street. Tye Crofton, a 19-year-old employee at DMU's Innovation Centre, described hearing a scream before witnessing the victim lying on the ground surrounded by bystanders.
"I was just about finishing work about five minutes to 5pm… and then I heard a scream," Crofton said. "As I exited from the doors over there to my right, there was a young man, a young black man lying on the floor… surrounded by about 12 to 17 bystanders, some of which had covered him in their coats."
Campus security reportedly arrived with a defibrillator before emergency services reached the location. The witness added that the area was busy with people finishing work at the time, which likely contributed to the number of individuals present during the incident.
Police Appeal for Information and Witnesses
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Lorna Granville from Leicestershire Police confirmed that officers are working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the stabbing. "One of the men is believed to have been stabbed and has then collapsed in the street," she stated. "Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he died in hospital."
Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area and speaking to potential witnesses. DI Granville extended gratitude to those who came to the victim's aid before emergency services arrived and urged anyone with information to come forward. "We know a lot of people came to the aid of the victim before emergency services arrived and we want to thank them for their help," she said. "If you were one of these people and you haven’t yet spoken to police, please make contact with us."
Community and Political Leaders Express Concern
The incident has prompted strong reactions from local community leaders and political figures. Councillor Liz Sahu, speaking on behalf of fellow Castle ward councillors Patrick Kitterick and Mick Gregg, expressed deep concern about the event and other recent incidents in the city. "Local councillors are very concerned and worried to read about the ‘serious incident’ that occurred at DMU last night," she said. "I hope and pray that everyone is safe."
Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews also issued a statement, describing the incident as "horrific and shocking." He confirmed that an 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in police custody. "A young man’s life has been unnecessarily cut short, and that is a tragedy," Matthews said. "I know the police are working tirelessly to bring the person, or persons, responsible to justice."
Ongoing Support and Investigation Efforts
De Montfort University has confirmed that it is working closely with Leicestershire Police as the investigation continues. The institution is offering comprehensive support to students, staff, and the family of the victim during this difficult time. Several roads in the area remained closed as police continued their investigative work, causing some disruption to local traffic and hospital appointments.
East Midlands Ambulance Service reported that they were called to the scene at 5.03pm on Tuesday and dispatched multiple resources including an ambulance car, three ambulances, and an air ambulance responder. University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust has advised patients with appointments to allow extra time for their journeys due to the ongoing police activity in the vicinity.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Leicestershire Police on 101, quoting incident number 495 of February 3.
