Great-gran, 87, dies in act of senseless violence at UK train station | UK | News
In a heartbreaking incident described as an “act of senseless violence“, a cherished grandmother has lost her life at a busy UK train station.
Dorothy Chiles, aged 87, died after being viciously assaulted at the bustling Birmingham New Street station.
Dorothy, who was taken to hospital in critical condition with a broken hip, managed to return home but sadly passed away five weeks later from the injuries sustained.
British Transport Police have detained a woman in her 20s on suspicion of manslaughter.
Overcome with grief, Dorothy’s family paid tribute to the “lively and outgoing” pensioner.
They said: “Dorothy was the heart and soul of our family – a lively, outgoing lady whose energy was contagious. At 87, she remained as active as ever, gardening, driving and helping her family. We all adored her.
“Tragically, Dorothy was attacked in an act of senseless violence, and though she fought with the same strength she carried through life, her injuries proved too severe.
“She passed away soon after, leaving behind our family utterly devastated by the loss of our beloved matriarch. Dorothy was more than a mum, grandmother and great-grandmother – she was a best friend, a guiding light and a source of endless joy.
“Her laughter, wisdom and unwavering love will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who cherished her.”
The tragic incident unfolded at around 11am on November 19 last year, reports the Mirror, leading to the death of Dorothy on Friday December 27. Following her passing, a post-mortem examination was conducted.
The circumstances surrounding her death are still being investigated, and the woman who was initially arrested on suspicion of GBH has now been released on conditional bail as inquiries continue, with her arrest status updated to suspicion of manslaughter.
British Transport Police are urgently seeking a man who witnessed the attack. He is described as a tall, white male in his early 30s, sporting a short goatee-style beard.
His attire included a brown knitted beanie hat, black framed glasses, a black double-breasted wool peacoat, beige chino trousers, dark grey gloves, a light grey scarf, black shoes, and he carried a black rucksack.
Detective Inspector Ian Wright issued a statement, saying: “This is a particularly shocking incident and I’d like to express our sincere condolences to Dorothy’s family who are being supported by officers, and ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
He continued: “The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and I would continue to urge anyone who witnessed the incident, including the man mentioned, to come forward and assist our inquiries. Anyone with information is urged to contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting 243 of November 19.”
For those wishing to provide information anonymously, they can reach out to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.