A teenager has made his first court appearance charged with the murder of Leicester student Khaleed Oladipo, who was fatally stabbed in the city centre earlier this week.
Charges and Court Appearance
Harper Dennis, an 18-year-old from North Road, West Drayton, London, appeared at Leicester Magistrates' Court on Saturday. He has been formally charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, according to statements released by Leicestershire Police.
During the brief hearing, no pleas were entered by the defendant. The magistrate remanded Dennis into custody and informed him that he will face trial for the alleged offences. The case has been scheduled for a preliminary hearing at Leicester Crown Court on 10 February.
Additional Weapon Charges
In a separate development, police confirmed that Dennis has also been charged with two additional counts of possession of an offensive weapon in a private place. Authorities have clarified that these charges are unrelated to the ongoing murder investigation involving Mr Oladipo's death.
Victim Remembered
Khaleed Oladipo, a De Montfort University student studying cybersecurity, died on Tuesday night after sustaining a single stab wound to the chest in Leicester city centre. The incident occurred in a public area, prompting a significant police response and investigation.
Mr Oladipo's family released a heartfelt statement describing him as an "extremely loved son, brother, uncle, boyfriend and friend" who had a passionate interest in football. He had been living in Leicester while pursuing his university studies at the time of his death.
University Community in Mourning
De Montfort University has acknowledged the tragic loss of one of its students, though official statements from the institution have not yet been released. The university community is expected to provide support services for affected students and staff members in the coming days.
The investigation continues as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fatal stabbing. Forensic teams have been examining the crime scene in Leicester city centre, and witnesses are being interviewed as part of the ongoing inquiry.
