A WOMAN who died after being brutally stabbed in the neck in a busy city centre has been pictured for the first time.
Katie Fox, 34, was left fighting for her life after allegedly being knifed in an “unprovoked attack” in Birmingham on Friday night.
Katie, who was named earlier, has now been pictured for the first time as heartbreaking tributes poured in following her horrific death.
Djeison Rafael, 21, was initially charged with attempted murder, a day after the horror unfolded at around 9pm in Smallbrook Queensway.
But following confirmation of Katie’s tragic death today, he was then charged with murder as he appeared at Birmingham Magistrates Court.
West Midlands Police confirmed Rafael has also been charged with two further assaults and possession of a blade.
The victim was immediately rushed to hospital with a “serious” injury to her neck.
Issuing a heartbreaking update this morning, the force confirmed Katie had since tragically died of her injuries.
Neighbours described Katie as a “nice girl” who moved into the semi-detached house when she was a teenager, reports the Mail.
One local told the outlet: “They’ve lived there for 20-odd years, Katie was a teenager when they arrived. She was a nice girl.
“I heard there had been an incident in the city centre but can’t believe she has died. It’s a tragedy.
“She didn’t live in the family home, I think she had a flat in Longbridge.”
Further heartbreaking tributes have also poured in for Katie after the devastating news broke.
Cathy Crossley, from Arts All Over The Place, (AAOTP) wrote: “Tragic news today that Katie Fox, partner of Gary Morris died after being stabbed on Friday Evening in Birmingham.
“She was a friend of AAOTP for many years, and attended several events. we are all devastated and send so much love and support to Gary Morris, who is base player in our band ADHD.”
Melanie Cox Pryce wrote: “This is absolutely devastating to hear! Poor lady was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“More needs to be done to help people feel safe again, more police on the streets and greater consequence for the crime.
“Sad for the family and friends.”
In a statement, West Midlands Police said: “A woman has sadly died after a stabbing in Birmingham on Friday night.
“A 34-year-old was taken to hospital with a serious injury to her neck after she was stabbed on Smallbrook Queensway shortly before 9pm.
“She has since tragically died in hospital. Our thoughts are with her loved ones and specially trained investigators are supporting her family.
“Djeison Rafael aged 21 has been charged in relation to the incident and has been remanded to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court.
“Following the victim’s death, an application will made to amend the charges to reflect the change in the victim’s condition.
“Extra officers will be around Birmingham city centre to offer reassurance as we understand this is a worrying incident.”
‘WORRYING INCIDENT’
Rafael wore a grey t-shirt and was flanked by two dock officers who removed his handcuffs as he faced District Judge John Bristow.
The 21-year-old was told to be quiet and look forward as he interrupted the six-minute hearing multiple times.
Rafael, of Rosedale Avenue in Smethwick, is also charged with two counts of causing actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7.
Further charges include possession of a Stanley blade on November 7 and assaulting a detention escort officer on November 8.
District Judge Bristow told the defendant: “I’m going to send you and your charges to the crown court on November 12.”
Several forensic tents were erected close to a bus stop near the scene.
Two silver tents and a large blue evidential tent could be seen on the pavement as the road was cordoned off.
West Mids Police said it is still keen to hear from anyone who may have information on the alleged attack.
