Rashidi Powell admits fatal stabbing of Robert West, 48, at Birmingham banqueting suite

A man today (January 17) admitted the killing of Robert West, who was stabbed to death at a club in Birmingham.

Rashidi Powell, aged 20, admitted the manslaughter of Robert West, who was 48 when he was stabbed at the Cross Keys Banqueting Suite on Steward Street in Ladywood.

Mr West, who was also known as Bob Fresh, arrived at the club at around 3am on 21 February last year.

Powell and a group of other people were standing inside the door and when Mr West walked in, Powell pulled out a knife. Mr West tried to punch another of Powell’s group, but was stabbed.

The group scattered and Mr West collapsed and died on the pavement outside the club.

West Midlands Police say it’s believed there was animosity between Powell’s group and Robert in the weeks leading up to the killing, but that the meeting at the Cross Keys was a chance encounter.

Powell, of Roslin Grove, Birmingham, denied murder but admitted manslaughter. He will be sentenced in the coming weeks.

Ashon D’Aguilar, 19, of Brunswick Road, Birmingham, and Tyreek Walker, 18, of Hytall Road, Solihull, were with Powell on the night. At court today, they admitted possession of a knife.

They will be sentenced tomorrow (Wednesday 18 January).

Family statement

Speaking after his death last year, Mr West’s family said: “Robert West, also known as Bob Fresh to most, was a loving husband, a proud father, a son, an uncle, brother and a loyal friend to many. He was the kind of person who would go the extra mile for those he loved and cared for.

“We are all in shock, devastated and truly heartbroken. He will be dearly missed forever by all. Rest easy king. Gone but never forgotten.”

Det Insp Ade George, who led the investigation, said: “Robert was loved by his friends and family, and our thoughts are with them today.”