An 80-year-old dog walker, Bhim Sen Kohli, was fatally attacked by a group of children while walking his dog near his home in Franklin Park, Leicester. The incident occurred on Sunday evening around 6:30 pm, just 30 seconds from Kohli’s residence. He was reportedly “kicked in the neck and back” during the assault, which led to severe injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
Leicestershire Police have arrested five children—three girls and two boys—aged between 12 and 14, on suspicion of murder. The suspects include a boy and a girl aged 14, and two girls and one boy aged 12. They are currently being held in custody for questioning.
Kohli, a retired factory owner known for his gentle nature, leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, three children, and two grandchildren. According to his daughter, Kohli had been active and healthy, maintaining three allotments and being well-known in the community. She described rushing to the park after the attack to find her father lying under a tree, critically injured.

Neighbors and friends expressed shock and disbelief at the attack. Deep Singh Kalia, a long-time friend of Kohli, spoke highly of him, describing him as a kind and active man who loved his family, his dog, and his allotment work. He questioned why anyone would want to harm such a gentle person. Other residents, like Frank Owen, noted that Kohli had been a familiar and friendly face in the community, and the news of his attack left them shaken.
There is speculation within the community about a possible racial motive behind the attack. Some residents noted that another Asian man in the area had recently reported incidents of racial abuse. However, the police have not confirmed any specific motive and are keeping an open mind as the investigation progresses.
Leicestershire Police have launched a murder investigation and are appealing to the public for any witnesses or information. They are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was in Franklin Park or the surrounding area between 6:00 pm and 6:45 pm on the day of the attack. The police are also seeking digital evidence, such as photos, videos, CCTV, or footage from dashcams or doorbell cameras.
As part of the investigation, the police are working closely with local residents and have maintained a presence in the area for reassurance. The case has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact between Kohli and the police, though the nature of this contact has not been disclosed.
Detective Inspector Emma Matts, leading the investigation, confirmed that the focus is on understanding the full circumstances of the attack. A scene preservation remains in place at the park as officers continue their work. The police have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
Credit: Dailymail