Teen, 18, ‘arrived in the UK on small boat’ charged with murder of hotel worker

A young man who is reported to have arrived in the UK via a small boat in July has been charged with the murder of a 27-year-old asylum hotel worker.

Rhiannon Skye Whyte died following a knife attack at Bescot Stadium station in Walsall, West Midlands, on Sunday night.

Deng Chol Majek, 18, of Walsall, was arrested and charged with attempted murder. However, when Ms Whyte died in hospital, the charge was changed to murder.

The 18-year-old man is understood to have arrived in the UK in July, crossing the English Channel from France on a dinghy. He then applied for asylum, according to a report in The Sun.

On Sunday night, after finishing her shift at 11pm the victim planned to take the 11.21pm train home to Walsall.

Police were contacted about the attack at 11.25pm by a passerby who found her unconscious at Bescot Stadium station.

The hotel worker was found with stab injuries and was rushed to hospital. However, she sadly died on Wednesday, surrounded by family. Mourners have left floral tributes at the scene where Ms Whyte was stabbed.

The 18-year-old suspect was remanded in custody and will appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on November 19.

A family spokesperson gave tribute to Ms Whyte.

The spokesperson said: “The most loved daughter, compassionate sister, loving aunty, gracious granddaughter, beautiful niece, wonderful cousin and devoted friend.

“The most selfless person you were brave, quirky, funny, and always there for anyone who needed it. There is not enough paper in the world to even begin to write a tribute for you, but no one deserves it more.

“The weird thing about this devastating loss is that we now need to navigate life without you, but how? If your short life will teach anything, it’s to cherish each moment with those you love, as tomorrow is never guaranteed.

“You are so strong, a fighter and no matter what happens, we as a family will always be united for you. We will love and miss you for now for always and forever.”

Nicholas Coates, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS West Midlands, said: “The prosecution has issued an indictment and Deng Chol Majek will now face counts of murder and possession of an offensive weapon following a stabbing at Bescot Stadium railway station.

“He will appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court next month for a preparatory hearing.

“Chol Majek was initially charged with attempted murder, but the victim, Rhiannon Whyte, has sadly died. Our thoughts remain with her friends and family at this incredibly difficult time.”