A man accused of murdering a 19-year-old mother on Bonfire Night has appeared in court and entered a not guilty plea.
Mohammed Azim, 41, appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court for a short hearing on Tuesday, May 5. He spoke only to confirm his identity and pleaded not guilty to a single count of murder.
Azim denies murdering Lily Whitehouse in Oldbury on November 5 last year. The defendant, of Tividale Road in Tipton, was remanded in custody.
Trial Date Set
Azim is due to face trial before a High Court judge starting June 3. The trial is listed at Wolverhampton Crown Court and is expected to last seven days.
Judge Michael Chambers KC told the defendant: "Your case has been adjourned for trial - at the moment, it's listed on June 3. If you chose not to attend your trial, you run the risk that it may proceed in your absence and that might mean that you become unrepresented. You have the right to give evidence at your trial."
Details of the Incident
West Midlands Police previously stated that Ms Whitehouse was found seriously injured in Park Street, Oldbury, on November 5. Despite efforts to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Family Tribute
Her family paid tribute to her, saying: "We are devastated by what has happened to our Lily, the void left in our hearts will never be filled. My beautiful girl Lily, your big brown eyes and your laughter could light up the world. You were so special. Nineteen years of love and laughter. Taken from us far too soon, in a way no heart should have to bear."
Tributes were left at the scene in Park Street, Oldbury, following the incident.
