Bhim Kohli: Family pay tribute to "loving" 80-year-old man brutally killed in Leicestershire park

Mr Kohli was attacked while walking his dog Rocky in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, Leicestershire, on the evening of Sunday, September 1. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Mr Kohli tragically died from a fatal neck injury, as revealed by a post-mortem examination.

Three girls and two boys, aged between 12 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of murder the following day. Four of the young suspects have since been released with no further action, while a 14-year-old boy remains in police custody.

In a heartfelt statement, Mr Kohli's grieving family described him as a devoted family man who brought joy and laughter to those around him. "Bhim was a loving husband, dad, and grandad. He was also a son, brother, and uncle," they said. "He adored his grandkids with all his heart and loved spending time with them. He really was such a loving, caring person whose life was centred around his family."

The family recalled his active lifestyle, even at the age of 80, including his daily visits to his allotment and frequent walks with Rocky. "One of his great passions was his allotment, he would go every day to tend to his plots and was so proud of them. He also enjoyed walking the family dog Rocky on the park many times a day."

They added: "Bhim loved to laugh. He was always very happy and talkative, the joker of the family and always loved to outsmart us with a smile."

The Kohli family, who have lived in the same house in Braunstone for 40 years, said they were overwhelmed by the messages of support from the community. "Our hearts have been completely broken. We are now pulling together as a family to try and support each other through the most difficult time imaginable."

It has since emerged that Mr Kohli had reported a previous disturbance involving local teens just months before his death. Friends revealed that he had been spat at outside his home and subjected to abuse after confronting the youths for climbing on a neighbouring garage roof.

Mr Kohli had contacted the police at the time, and Leicestershire Police have now referred themselves to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC), which is investigating the handling of the earlier complaint.

Detective Inspector Emma Matts, the senior investigating officer, said: “The circumstances surrounding Mr Kohli’s death are extremely tragic and upsetting, not only for his family and friends but also the wider community.”

Leicestershire Police are appealing for anyone who was in the Bramble Way area of Franklin Park between 6pm and 6.45pm on Sunday to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation.