Man charged with murder of young footballer stabbed to death at Digbeth house party

Police have charged a teenager with the murder of a man who was stabbed to death at a party being held in Birmingham, as the victim’s family paid tribute to their ‘passionate and loving boy’.

Gurveer Bhandal, 18, is accused of killing Ashley Day, 20, as well as possession of a bladed article. He was charged last night (June 30) and will appear before city magistrates today (Saturday, 1 July).

Ashley played football for Newport football academy and was getting ready to study at Brunel University.

The tragedy unfolded at an apartment in Bradford Street, Digbeth just after 6am on Thursday. The apartment was being used as a venue for a party which had been advertised through social media platforms.

Today, Ashley’s family said: “Ashley was a very well-mannered and loving boy. He was very passionate about football and excelled at Newport football academy.

“He had a great love for music. He’d just been accepted to study sports science at Brunel University and was very excited to start later this year.

“He was a great big brother and protector to his mum, younger brother, and his family. Anyone who knew him will tell you how he exuded joy and happiness and always wanted the best for everybody.

“His smile was infectious and his sense of humour was out of this world. Our hearts are bleeding for our model son.”

What has West Midlands Police said?

Det Insp Jim Mahon, leading the investigation, said: “We are supporting Ashley’s family at this awful time

“While we have now charged a man with this murder, we believe there may still be people who may have information, photographs or videos of the party and incident.

“We ask that anyone present come forward to provide us with information about the event. “