An 80-year-old man suspected of being murdered by a group of young children in a park in the UK has been identified by neighbours as Bhim Kohli, 80, a father of three and grandfather of two.
Leicestershire Police has launched a murder investigation after an elderly man died in hospital from his injuries at around 6.30pm on Sunday in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, Leicestershire.
The attack is said to have happened around 6.30pm near the park entrance on Bramble Way. Reports say the victim, who was walking his dog and wearing a black jumper and grey sweatpants, was violently assaulted by a group of young people, who left the scene before emergency services arrived.
“His family are devastated. He was a slim, healthy man who was always on the property opposite ours. He has two grown-up sons and a daughter and two grandchildren.
He had a factory in Leicester making sweaters and cardigans but retired many years ago. It’s tragic what happened.”
Mr Kohli’s daughter told the Leicester Mercury before his death: “He was walking his dog and they pushed him, kicked him in the neck, kicked him in the spine.
“He was going to be home in 30 seconds. He was always very active. He has three properties and we’ve lived here for 40 years.”
A neighbour told The Sun: “We heard a commotion outside and found him lying in the park screaming in pain. He said he was pushed down violently.”
His wife was comforted by their sons Baul and Varinder, and daughter Susan.
Detective Senior Investigator Emma Mattes, of Leicestershire Police, said: “Following the victim’s death last night, this is sadly now a murder investigation.
“Officers continue to work diligently to establish details of the attack and we have made a number of arrests as we continue to establish what happened.
“We appeal for anyone who may have been in the area to come forward if they saw anything or have any information that may help.
Were you in the Franklin Park or Brambleway area around 6.30pm on Sunday evening? Did you yourself see the attack? Based on the description, did you see the victim prior to the incident or a group of young people leaving the area after the incident?
“A crime scene security is being maintained in the park as the investigation progresses. Local officers are also conducting reassurance patrols in the area and are available to speak to anyone in the community who is concerned.”
Given police have had contact with the victim in the past, police are voluntarily transferring this case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). ) ) Forward.
