Inquest opens into death of grandfather, 80, who was fatally injured in park

An inquest into the tragic death of an 80-year-old grandfather, Bhim Kohli, who was fatally injured during an assault in a park near his home, has been opened and adjourned. The proceedings took place at Leicester Coroner's Court today (Thursday, November 21).

Coroner Ivan Cartwright informed the family members present that the inquest would be adjourned due to ongoing criminal proceedings. He stated: "Today I'm opening the inquest and suspending the inquest into the death of Mr Bhim Kohli. I'm aware that a 14-year-old male was charged with the offence of murder and there is a criminal trial listed to take place in February 2025. So at this stage I'm statutorily obliged to suspend the inquest."

A preliminary cause of death was given as a neck injury, pending further tests, but a final cause of death has not yet been determined.

Mr Kohli passed away at Queen's Medical Centre, in Nottingham, on the evening of Monday, September 2, after being severely injured in Franklin Park, Braunstone Town, while walking his dog, Rocky. Initially, five children were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Four were released without further action, and a 14-year-old boy was charged with murder. The boy, who cannot be named due to his age, is expected to enter a plea tomorrow (Friday) at Leicester Crown Court, reports Leicestershire Live.

The family of Mr Kohli released a statement through Leicestershire Police, expressing their deep loss: "Bhim was a loving husband, dad and grandad. He was also a son, brother and uncle."

They continued to share the warmth of his character, "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."

In light of the circumstances surrounding Mr Kohli's death, Leicestershire Police have made a voluntary referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous interactions with the victim. At the opening of the inquest, Mr Cartwright extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, saying: "I am very sorry for your loss, you have my very sincere condolences."