A "cherished" grandmother died following an "act of senseless violence" at a busy train station. Dorothy Chiles, 87, was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after she was attacked on the concourse of Birmingham New Street station. The great-grandmother suffered a broken hip and was discharged from hospital, but later died at home five weeks after the assault. British Transport Police say a woman in her 20s has now been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. Dorothy's family released a poignant tribute, via the police force, in which they say the "lively and outgoing" pensioner is sorely missed.
"Dorothy was the heart and soul of our family - a lively, outgoing lady whose energy was contagious. At 87, she remained as active as ever, gardening, driving and helping her family. We all adored her," her devastated relatives said last night. "Tragically, Dorothy was attacked in an act of senseless violence, and though she fought with the same strength she carried through life, her injuries proved too severe.
"She passed away soon after, leaving behind our family utterly devastated by the loss of our beloved matriarch. Dorothy was more than a mum, grandmother and great-grandmother - she was a best friend, a guiding light and a source of endless joy. "Her laughter, wisdom and unwavering love will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who cherished her.". The attack happened at around 11am on November 19 last year and, following Dorothy's death on Friday December 27, a post-mortem examination was carried out. The mum's passing remains under investigation, however, and the woman detained has been released on conditional bail pending further inquiries. She was initially detained on suspicion of GBH but has since been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
Now, British Transport Police said officers are still keen to speak with a man who witnessed the incident. He is described as a tall, white man in his early 30s, with a short goatee-style beard. Police said he wore a brown knitted beanie hat, black framed glasses, a black double-breasted wool peacoat, beige chino trousers, dark grey gloves, light grey scarf, black shoes and black rucksack. Detective Inspector Ian Wright said: "This is a particularly shocking incident and I'd like to express our sincere condolences to Dorothy's family who are being supported by officers, and ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.
"The investigation into this incident is ongoing, and I would continue to urge anyone who witnessed the incident, including the man mentioned, to come forward and assist our inquiries. Anyone with information is urged to contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting 243 of November 19.". Alternatively, members of the public can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Get email updates with the day's biggest stories.
