Boy, 15, denies murder of grandad, 80, who was ‘kicked to death’ while walking dog in park

A SCHOOLBOY has denied murdering a grandad who was allegedly kicked to death while walking his dog.

Bhim Kohli, 80, was just 30 seconds from home when he was attacked in Franklin Park near Leicester on September 1.

A 15-year-old boy appeared at Leicester Crown Court today charged with murder.

The teen, who was aged 14 at the time, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address and deny the charge.

He was remanded into secure youth accommodation to next appear at the same court on January 24.

The judge set a provisional trial date for February 17 next year.

A 12-year-old girl also appeared in court today charged with manslaughter but did not enter a plea.

She has been granted conditional bail and is expected to go on trial in February with the other youth.

The horror unfolded close to the entrance of Franklin Park at around 6.30pm on September 1.

Allotment-loving Bhim was rushed to hospital but sadly couldn't be saved and died the following evening.

A post-mortem found he died as a result of a neck injury pending further tests.

In a moving tribute, Bhim's family said: "Bhim was a loving husband, dad and grandad. He was also a son, brother and uncle.

"He adored his grandkids with all his heart and loved spending time with them. He really was such a loving, caring person whose life was centred around his family.

“He has always been a very hardworking man and even at the age of 80 he was still very active. One of his great passions was his allotment, he would go everyday to tend to his plots and was so proud of them. He also enjoyed walking the family dog Rocky on the park many times a day.

“Bhim loved to laugh. He was always very happy and talkative, the joker of the family and always loved to outsmart us with a smile.

"Our family have lived in the same house in Braunstone for 40 years, so he was very well known in the community – we have been overwhelmed by the messages and support from many who knew him.

“Our hearts have been completely broken. We are now pulling together as a family to try and support each other through the most difficult time imaginable and would ask for privacy while we do this.”

Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to "prior contact" between officers and Bhim.