Nila Patel, 56, was walking along a street in Leicester when she was allegedly attacked. The incident came moments after a car crashed nearby. A man has been charged with her murder.
Tributes have been paid to a “kind-hearted” mum-of-two who died after allegedly being attacked by a driver following a car crash.
Nila Patel, 56, died from a head injury after the incident in Leicester city centre last Tuesday. The pedestrian was allegedly attacked moments after a car overturned near to the city’s prison and hospital. Michael Chuwuemeka, 23, from Leicester, has been charged with Nila’s murder. He is also accused of dangerous driving, possession with intent to supply class B drugs, attempted GBH and assaulting an emergency worker. Chuwuemeka is also charged with ABH in connection with a separate victim in London.
Nila’s children Jaiden and Danika paid an emotional tribute to their mum. They said: “We are heartbroken, but we want the world to know who our mum truly was – a beautiful, vibrant soul who deserved so much more.
“Her love was quiet but powerful – shown through warm meals, thoughtful words, and a smile that could light up any room. She always put others before herself, offering comfort without ever asking for anything in return.
“Even when life was hard, she carried on with strength, dignity and a smile on her face. She was a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and an incredibly hard worker.
“At home and in her career, she gave everything she had – never complaining, always giving. She raised us with patience, love, and unwavering support, and our greatest wish was always to make her proud.
“Mum’s life was full of love, and the stories we’ve heard from those who knew her have reminded us of just how deeply she touched the lives around her. She was truly rich in love and generosity.
“We will miss her more than words can ever express. We didn’t get the chance to say goodbye, and that pain is something we carry every day. But we will continue to speak her name with pride, honour her memory, and live by the values she taught us.
“Mum’s story matters. Her life mattered. We ask that anyone who hears her story helps us keep her name and memory alive.”
An online fundraiser set up by Jaiden to help raise money for his mother’s funeral has raised nearly £20,000.
Chuwuemeka has already appeared in court and is due back before a judge later this year.