Murderers seen re-enacting attack that killed family man in Birmingham park
His family said they struggle with his loss everyday.
Last updated 26th Feb 2025
Six people have been found guilty of murdering a father in Perry Hill Park, Birmingham, after they were captured on CCTV re-enacting the attack and laughing shortly after it happened.
Michael Obasi's body was found inside the park by a dog walker two days after he was attacked by three men and three teenagers last March.
A post mortem concluded that the attack had been violent.
Manuel Filipache, Ion Morar, 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.
All six were found guilty of murder and robbery at Birmingham Crown Court.
CCTV found that two of the defendants used Michael's cards multiple times after he was murdered.
Three of the group were also seen re-enacting the attack on CCTV, laughing and chatting animatedly.
Items belonging to Michael were found at addresses linked to the group and DNA from two of the teenagers was found on his t-shirt and rucksack.
The family of Michael today paid tribute to the devoted father: “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 CPS 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 our Homicide Team, said: “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.”