A young man, believed to have arrived in the UK via small boat in July, has been charged with the murder of 27-year-old Rhiannon Skye Whyte, who was fatally stabbed after finishing her evening shift.
Deng Chol Majek, 18, from Walsall, was initially arrested and charged with attempted murder following the stabbing. However, following Ms. Whyte’s tragic death in hospital, the charge was upgraded to murder.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening at Bescot Stadium railway station in Walsall. It is believed the altercation leading to the attack stemmed from a disagreement over a packet of biscuits that took place at the hotel where both Majek and Whyte were staying. Majek had been living at the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel in Bescot after arriving in the UK by crossing the English Channel in July.
Ms. Whyte, who worked at the hotel, had just finished her shift around 11 p.m. and was waiting for her train home to Walsall. At 11:25 p.m., a passerby discovered her unconscious at the station, suffering from knife wounds. She was rushed to the hospital but sadly passed away on Wednesday, surrounded by her family.
Mourners have since left floral tributes at the scene in honor of the beloved 27-year-old. Majek, who has been remanded in custody, will appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 19 for a preparatory hearing.
The family of Ms. Whyte has expressed their profound grief, sharing a heartfelt tribute to their daughter, sister, aunt, granddaughter, niece, and friend. A spokesperson for the family stated, “The most selfless person, you were brave, quirky, funny, and always there for anyone who needed it. There is not enough paper in the world to even begin to write a tribute for you.”
Nicholas Coates, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS West Midlands, confirmed Majek will face charges of murder and possession of an offensive weapon in relation to the stabbing.
“Our thoughts remain with Rhiannon’s friends and family at this incredibly difficult time,” he said.