Six people found guilty of murdering 'beloved' dad whose body was discovered by dog walker two days after attack

Michael Obasi was out for an evening walk on March 14 last year when he was attacked and beaten by a group of three men and three teenage boys.

Mr Obasi's family reported him missing but his body was found at Perry Hall Park in Perry Barr, Birmingham, by a dog walker two days later.

A post mortem concluded the 38-year-old had died from multiple injuries following a violent attack, a West Midlands Police spokesperson said.

Police launched an investigation and trawled through CCTV footage in the area to identify the attackers. 

Manuel Filipache, Ion Morar and Ion Calin along with two 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old who cannot be named for legal reasons were all arrested from addresses in Aston, Birmingham.

CCTV recordings obtained from two shops in Perry Barr showed Filipache and Morar using their victim's card moments after the attack. The card was used multiple times.

Later that evening, Filipache, Morar and Calin were captured on CCTV re-enacting the attack on Michael and seen laughing and chatting animatedly about it.

Following their arrests, items belonging to Mr Obasi were found at addresses linked to the group, including his torch. DNA from two of the teenagers was found on his t-shirt and rucksack.

During police investigations, Filipache, Morar and Calin were identified as also being involved in a violent assault that took place at Walsall Train Station on January 15, 2024.

A man was targeted by the group as he walked through the station and was repeatedly punched and kicked.

When questioned about the assault at the train station, Filipache claimed he attacked the man in self-defence, fearing he was about to be attacked but CCTV told a different story.

The three men were charged in connection with the assault and, along with the three teenagers, they were also charged with Michael’s murder.

At Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday (February 25) all six were found guilty of murder and robbery. 

Filipache, Morar and Calin were also found guilty of the attempted robbery of a man at Walsall Train Station. They were remanded until sentencing at a later date.

'What began as a normal day tragically ended in heartbreak'

In a tribute issued by West Midlands Police, Mr Obasi's heartbroken family said: “Michael was a beloved partner, dad, son, brother and uncle who was cherished by everyone who knew him.

"His beautiful smile and gentle spirit brought warmth and joy to those around him and his loss is something we struggle with every single day. He was a devoted father who doted on his little boy, they were so close, always laughing and playing together.

“On the day he was taken from us, Michael had spent time helping his mum with her car, something he always did willingly, as helping family meant everything to him. Later, he went out for a walk, likely to try to beat his dad in their daily step count competition, and possibly to practise his drone flying skills, walking around a park where he spent many a day, a park full of fond family memories.

“What began as a normal day tragically ended in heartbreak when he met with unimaginable evil. This tragedy is the result of a senseless and callous act by individuals with complete disregard for human life. While we hope justice will prevail, no amount of justice will ever bring Michael back or ease the pain of his loss.

"We are deeply grateful to the police and Crown Prosecution Service for their dedication and efforts in investigating Michael's death. Our heartfelt thanks also go to the officers who have supported us with compassion throughout the investigation and during the trial.

“We remember Michael for the love, kindness and light he brought into our lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Michael.”

Detective Inspector Phil Poole from the West Midlands Police Homicide Team, added: “What happened to Michael was truly awful. He has been taken away in a such a cruel way from a family who loved him dearly.

“The group throughout the trial have shown no remorse for their actions. Instead, they have acted in a disgusting manner and have put Michael’s family through the pain of a trial.

“It’s heart-breaking that Perry Hall Park was once a place where Michael and his family made happy memories together and that has now been taken away from them.

“I know this verdict will not bring Michael back, but I do hope that knowing they will spend a long time in prison, brings some closure to the family.”