Four of the five children arrested on suspicion of the murder of an 80-year-old man in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, have now been released. The tragic incident involving Bhim Kohli, who was brutally attacked while walking his dog, has shocked the community on the outskirts of Leicester. Mr. Kohli succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, sparking a murder investigation by Leicestershire Police.
The Attack and Investigation
The attack on Mr. Kohli took place near the entrance to Franklin Park in Bramble Way at around 6.30pm on a Sunday evening. The post-mortem examination revealed that he died due to a severe neck injury, pending further tests. The police arrested a 14-year-old boy and girl, along with two 12-year-old girls and a boy, in connection with the attack. While the 14-year-old boy remains in police custody, the other four children have been released without further action.
The Victim
Described as a “very good man” by his neighbor and friend Deep, Mr. Kohli was known for his quiet and jolly demeanor. A family man with three children and grandchildren, Mr. Kohli was originally from India and had been residing in the UK for decades. He was an active individual who spent a lot of time tending to his allotment and was known to be very fit. His daughter recounted finding him lying on the ground after the attack, just moments away from home. She shared that he was initially complaining about his neck before losing mobility in his legs. Mr. Kohli was taken to a Nottingham hospital with spinal injuries and was scheduled for surgery.
Community Response
The shocking and tragic nature of Mr. Kohli’s attack has left the community reeling. Deep expressed disbelief at the incident, highlighting the peaceful nature of his friend and the unexpected violence that occurred in the usually busy park. As news of the incident spread, residents of Braunstone Town and Leicester have come together to mourn the loss of a beloved member of the community.
Appeal for Witnesses
The police are actively seeking witnesses to provide any information that could assist in the investigation. Detective Inspector Emma Matts urged anyone who was in the area of Franklin Park or Bramble Way around the time of the attack to come forward. She specifically called for individuals who may have seen the victim before the incident or a group of young people leaving the area after the attack to provide any relevant details. Reassurance patrols have been deployed in the area, and the police are working diligently to gather information and bring justice to Mr. Kohli’s family.
Referral to IOPC
Due to prior contact with the victim, Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) for further investigation. This step underscores the commitment to transparency and accountability in handling cases involving vulnerable individuals such as Mr. Kohli.
Keeping the Community Safe
As the investigation continues, the police are committed to keeping the community safe and secure. Reassurance patrols are ongoing in Braunstone Town, providing a visible presence to residents and deterring any potential criminal activity. The tragic incident has underscored the need for vigilance and cooperation within the community to prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future.
Support for the Family
In the wake of the devastating loss of Mr. Kohli, the community has rallied around his family to offer support and comfort during this difficult time. Neighbors, friends, and well-wishers have come forward to express their condolences and provide assistance to the grieving family. The outpouring of support serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the community in times of tragedy.
Conclusion
The senseless attack on Bhim Kohli in Franklin Park has sent shockwaves through Braunstone Town and Leicester, prompting a swift and thorough investigation by Leicestershire Police. As the community mourns the loss of a beloved member, there is a collective call for justice and accountability in ensuring that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice. The outpouring of support and solidarity from residents underscores the resilient spirit of the community in the face of adversity. As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that the truth will prevail, and Mr. Kohli’s memory will be honored with the justice he deserves.
