A young mother was killed by her partner as she walked home from visiting her newborn baby in hospital. Mohammed Azim deliberately ran over 19-year-old Lily Whitehouse in Oldbury before staging a fake 999 call to cover up his crime.
The Murder
Azim, 41, of Tividale Road, Oldbury, mowed down Lily after the pair met in his truck. Disturbing CCTV footage showed him nudging her with the vehicle before fatally running her over. He then placed her body in the truck, moved it to another location, and called 999 claiming he had witnessed a hit-and-run.
Relationship History
Lily and Azim first met when she was just 16 during a 'chance encounter' on the street, Detective Inspector Nigel Box told BirminghamLive. Their relationship was on-and-off, and Lily had recently given birth to a baby with another man.
Police Investigation
West Midlands Police said: 'When we interviewed Azim, he provided no account for what happened to Lily. But the evidence showed he had driven into Lily and killed her.' Jurors saw through his lies and on Friday, June 19, he was found guilty of murder.
Family Tribute
Lily's heartbroken family said: 'While nothing can ever bring Lily back, we take some comfort in knowing that justice has been served. There are no words that can truly capture the pain of losing Lily so young and full of life. Our hearts are broken by this senseless act.'
'At just 19 years old, Lily’s life was taken far too soon, leaving behind dreams unfulfilled and our family forever changed. We mourn not only the loss of her but also the future that was stolen. The brutal murder of our Lily has left our family in profound grief and disbelief.'
'Her life was taken far too soon, and the pain of this loss is unimaginable. Our hearts ache for the years she was denied, but our love for her will never fade. Lily, precious, your life was a gift, your loss is a tragedy, and your memory will be cherished forever.'
Detective's Statement
Detective Inspector Nigel Box added: 'Azim tried to cover up Lily’s murder by calling 999 and inventing a story that she was hit by a second vehicle. However, our investigation proved otherwise. Azim killed Lily in a nearby location and then put her back in his truck and dropped her at Park Street.'
'Lily was a young mom who was looking forward to raising her new baby. Azim took that opportunity away and now her baby will grow up without her. My thoughts are with Lily’s loved ones.'
