Mother of murder victim urges people not to congregate at his funeral

Gary Warner, 31, died in hospital in Sutton Coldfield after being stabbed in the chest on October 31.

Mr Warner's funeral is due to take place today and his family are concerned that lots of people may go to the cemetery – despite numbers having to be reduced due to coronavirus regulations.

It comes after disorder broke out when 400 people turned up at a vigil the family held in Churchill Parade on November 1.

Mr Warner's mother, Collette, is urging people to respect their wishes for a quiet and peaceful funeral.

She said: “Thank you for the love, help and support shown by so many of our family, friends and the local community during this awful time.

“We are all devastated at our loss, Gary was a kind loving brother, son, nephew, uncle and friend. He had a zest for life and everyone who knew him loved him.

“We are also eternally grateful to everyone who has donated money via JustGiving which has helped us give Gary the funeral and send-off he deserves.

“We would respectfully ask that we are allowed to have our service privately and peacefully and would ask people not to congregate or come to the crematorium.

“What happened at the vigil was deeply distressing for my family who are in pain and shock at Gary’s sudden passing.

“We need as a family to be able to put Gary to rest at peace. If people wish they can pay their respects by lining the street as Gary leaves our home, but we would then like to be left in private.”

Kane Stonehouse, 20, from Stone Avenue, Falcon Lodge, Sutton Coldfield, has been charged with Mr Warner's murder.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police added: "A man has been charged with Gary’s murder and is currently remanded in custody.

"Gary’s family continue to be supported by our specialist family liaison officers and our thoughts remain with them at this sad time."