The mother of Katie Fox, who was fatally stabbed at a Birmingham bus stop, has launched a fundraiser to erect a memorial stone at her daughter's grave. Maria Fox described the past eight months as "the most horrific" and "horrendous time" after losing her "precious" daughter.
Fundraiser for Memorial Stone
Maria has set up a GoFundMe page with a target of £3,500 to fund a memorial stone at Katie's resting place in Devon. Katie, 34, was killed while waiting for a bus on Smallbrook Queensway in Birmingham city centre last November. She was laid to rest in March in Devon, which she had planned to move to.
"We laid Katie to rest in Devonshire as it was most important that she is surrounded by beautiful and tranquil surroundings that she deserved," Maria said. "We would like to thank all from the bottom of our hearts, for your generosity, compassion and thoughtfulness in helping to generate funds so that we can erect a beautiful memorial stone in memory of our dearest Katie at her burial ground."
Tribute and Memorial Service
A special memorial service for Katie was held at St Francis Church in Bournville in May, attended by friends and family. Maria described her daughter as a "beautiful and caring soul" who had "touched the hearts" of many with her "kindness" and "respectfulness".
"We will never come to terms with such tragedy, such loss, such grief, knowing that our dearest beloved Katie has gone from us forever," Maria added. "Katie we will love and cherish your life and special memories forever. You will never be forgotten by all who knew you. Rest in peace, dear angel."
Suspect and Legal Proceedings
Djeison Rafael, 21, of no fixed address, has been charged with Katie's murder. He also faces two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7, possession of a Stanley blade on November 7, and assaulting a detention escort officer on November 8. His trial was originally scheduled for May 5 but was postponed due to legal arguments. Judge Paul Farrer KC refixed the trial for October 6.
