Walsall, UK (AP) — A tragic and senseless murder took place on October 20, 2024, when Rhiannon Skye Whyte, a 27-year-old hotel worker, was brutally attacked and stabbed more than 20 times with a screwdriver. The assailant, Deng Chol Majek, an asylum seeker from Sudan, followed Whyte after her shift at Walsall’s Park Inn hotel and attacked her near Bescot Stadium Station. The young woman, who died from a fatal brain injury three days later, was left for dead by the assailant, who later celebrated the act by drinking and dancing with friends, according to reports.
Majek, who claims to be 19 years old but is officially recognized as 27 by German authorities, was caught on CCTV following Whyte from the hotel to the station. The brutal and frenzied attack, described as relentless, has left her family and friends in a state of devastation. Majek’s callous behavior after the killing has sparked outrage among the public and those who knew Whyte.
What Happened: The Attack and Aftermath
On the evening of October 20, Rhiannon was walking home after finishing her shift when Majek followed her to a secluded area. Without any provocation, Majek attacked Whyte, stabbing her multiple times in a savage assault. Following the attack, he walked away and went on to enjoy time with his friends. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and Whyte was transported to the hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Despite his violent actions, Majek continued to deny responsibility for the murder, but after the investigation, he was found guilty of her death. His actions have left the family in shock and disbelief.
Who Was Rhiannon Skye Whyte?
Rhiannon was a young woman who, by all accounts, was known for her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family. A mother to a young son, Rhiannon’s sudden and brutal death has left her family heartbroken. Her mother, Siobhan Whyte, and sister, Alex Whyte, both spoke of the tremendous pain they felt at losing a loved one so violently and senselessly.
“She was full of life and love, always putting everyone else before herself,” said her mother in a statement. Rhiannon was known for her deep love for her son and the devotion she showed to her family, always making sure to share moments of joy and laughter with her loved ones.
The Family’s Heartbreak and Strength
The Whyte family has experienced profound grief since the tragic loss of Rhiannon. Siobhan and Alex reflected on the pain of having to break the news to Rhiannon’s young son, who was just 5 years old at the time. Explaining the death of his mother to him was one of the hardest moments in the family’s life.
Alex, speaking with tears in her eyes, recalled how they had to comfort him as he cried out in pain, not understanding why his mother wouldn’t be coming home. “The scream that left that child that day will haunt me for the rest of my life,” Alex said, adding that the family continues to support him as best as they can.
“We always say we are so lucky to have him because we’ve always got a piece of her,” Alex continued. “He is her. We get to watch her grow all over again, and he will achieve everything she ever wanted.”
The Community’s Response
The death of Rhiannon Skye Whyte has sent shockwaves through her community in Walsall, and tributes have poured in from across the UK. Friends, family, and even strangers have shared messages of sympathy and support. Many people who knew Rhiannon described her as a caring and selfless person, and her murder has sparked conversations about safety and the need for stronger protections for women.
A Call for Justice
Rhiannon’s family has vowed to keep her memory alive and to continue living in a way that would make her proud. They remain focused on the positivity and strength that she embodied throughout her life. “This is everything that Rhiannon would have ever wanted — the strength that we’ve kept as a family,” Alex said, speaking about the promise the family made to Rhiannon during her hospital stay.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The legal process for Majek continues, with sentencing scheduled for a later date. The police investigation into the events surrounding the murder has already concluded, and Majek’s guilt has been confirmed. While no further details on sentencing have been made public, the Whyte family is hopeful that justice will prevail in the coming weeks.
As the community of Walsall mourns, Rhiannon’s family and friends are determined to honor her memory. They encourage others to continue advocating for justice, awareness of domestic violence, and safety for all. The story of Rhiannon’s life and death will continue to inspire conversations around the importance of love, family, and protection from violence.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
