In a heartbreaking incident, an 18-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Khaleed Oladipo, a 20-year-old student, following a stabbing near De Montfort University in Leicester. Oladipo, who was studying cyber-security, succumbed to his injuries in hospital on Tuesday evening after being attacked on Oxford Street.
Court Appearance and Charges
The suspect, identified as Harper Dennis, appeared at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, where he was formally charged with murder and possessing an offensive weapon in a public setting. He is scheduled for a further hearing at Leicester Crown Court on Tuesday. In addition to the murder charge, Dennis faces two counts of possessing an offensive weapon in private, which police have indicated are not connected to the murder case.
Community Reaction and Tributes
The family of Khaleed Oladipo, who hailed from London, expressed their devastation in a heartfelt tribute. They described him as “a good boy who loved his family,” highlighting the profound loss felt by his loved ones. They extended their gratitude to the members of the public who rushed to aid him following the attack, acknowledging the community’s support during this tragic time. “We cannot begin to put into words how sad we are to have lost Khaleed. He was an extremely loved son, brother, uncle, boyfriend, and friend,” they shared.
University Response and Support
The incident has prompted a strong response from De Montfort University, where Oladipo was a second-year student. Professor Katie Normington, the university’s vice-chancellor, expressed her devastation over the loss. She confirmed that the university is providing direct support to students, staff, and Oladipo’s family, emphasising the community’s solidarity during this challenging period.
In the aftermath of the stabbing, local authorities received reports around 17:00 GMT on Tuesday, leading to the closure of several roads in the vicinity to facilitate investigations.
Why it Matters
This tragic event underscores the pressing issue of youth violence and the devastating impact it has on families and communities. The loss of a vibrant young life, full of potential, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to address violence in our society. As the investigation unfolds, it highlights not only the personal tragedy for Oladipo’s family but also the broader implications for safety in our communities and the importance of support systems in educational institutions.
