A TRIAL date has been set for the man charged with the murder of Northfield woman Katie Fox in Birmingham City Centre.
Djeison Rafael, aged 21, will appear at Birmingham Crown Court on May 5, 2026.
A plea and trial preparation hearing will take place on January 16.
Katie Fox, aged 34, was taken to hospital with a serious injury to her neck after she was stabbed on Smallbrook Queensway shortly before 9pm on Friday night.
She has since tragically died in hospital.
Rafael was initially charged with attempted murder and appeared at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Monday.
Following the victim’s death, an application was made to amend the charges to reflect the change in the victim’s condition.
Rafael was also charged with two counts of actual bodily harm, possession of a blade and assaulting an emergency worker.
Extra officers have been around Birmingham city centre to offer reassurance.
The leader of Birmingham City Council, Coun John Cotton, has paid tribute to Katie.
He said: “I am shocked and deeply saddened by this appalling attack, and my thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved Katie.
“The Council continues to work closely with West Midlands Police and other partners to ensure that the city centre remains a safe and welcoming place and we remain committed to tackling knife crime through coordinated prevention, education, and enforcement efforts.
“We must work together to do all that we can to eliminate the scourge of knife crime.”
West Midlands Police also paid tribute to Katie.
A spokesperson for the force said their thoughts are with her loved ones and specially trained investigators are supporting her family.
