Updated 3 July 2025 at 09:30 IST
A 56-year-old Indian-origin woman, Nila Patel, has died after suffering a fatal head injury during an alleged assault on the streets of Leicester, eastern England. The incident, which took place on June 24 near Aylestone Road in central Leicester, shortly after a car crash in the same area. In this case, murder charges have been filed against a 23-year-old man, Michael Chuwuemeka.
Patel was rushed to hospital after the attack but succumbed to her injuries two days later. A post-mortem examination confirmed the provisional cause of death as a head injury.
As per reports, Patel was walking nearby when she was attacked.
The suspect, Chuwuemeka of Dover Street, Leicester, has been charged with her murder and appeared via video link at Leicester Crown Court on Tuesday, where he was remanded in custody. In addition to the murder charge, he faces multiple other serious charges, including - dangerous driving, possession with intent to supply Class B drugs, assaulting a police officer after his arrest, causing actual bodily harm in a separate case in London earlier that day.
Nila Patel’s children, Jaidan and Danika, have issued a touching public statement, remembering their mother as a kind, selfless, and loving woman who was the heart of their family.
“We are heartbroken, but we want the world to know who our mum truly was – a beautiful, vibrant soul who deserved so much more,” they wrote in the statement released by Leicestershire Police.
They described her as someone who quietly gave her love through thoughtful acts, warm meals, and a smile that lit up every room. A devoted mother and loyal friend, Patel raised her children with patience and unconditional support.
“Mum’s life was full of love, and the stories we’ve heard from those who knew her have reminded us of just how deeply she touched the lives around her. She was truly rich in love and generosity.
We will miss her more than words can ever express. We didn’t get the chance to say goodbye, and that pain is something we carry every day. But we will continue to speak her name with pride, honour her memory, and live by the values she taught us,” the statement added.
Leicestershire Police continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the assault.
Published 3 July 2025 at 09:30 IST