Heartbreak of train attack victim's girlfriend
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The girlfriend of a man left in a coma by a gang of violent youths spoke today of her heartbreak that he has been robbed of knowing his baby daughter.
Mollie Jones was heavily pregnant when she witnessed the attack on her boyfriend, Michael Ogbuehi, on a train on May 29.
The 17-year-old, from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, had her daughter on June 6.
Six days later, after her partner complained of severe headaches, he was admitted to hospital where he fell into a coma.
"I was about to have a little baby girl and Michael was really excited because he doesn't have many family members so he was really happy," said Miss Jones.
"He saw her twice before he fell into a coma.
"It is hard because every time I look at her I see him.
"I take her up to the hospital to see him and it's like he knows when she is there because he'll open his eyes and he'll squeeze my hand.
"Ava's nearly four months now. She is lovely and she's getting big.
"I really wanted her to know her dad and he's not going to be around. It's not fair.
"I really hope the other people on the train come forward and help.
"I just want the people that did this to be brought to justice."
Miss Jones said she and Mr Ogbuehi, who had been together for two years, had been out for a meal in Southend, Essex, before they boarded a train towards London when the attack happened.
Police said between 9.40pm and 10pm, Mr Ogbuehi, 20, of Chalkwell, Essex, was punched and kicked by a large group of youths in front of Miss Jones.
Officers said two 16-year-old girls from Tottenham, north London, were arrested this morning.
So far 20 people have been arrested in connection with the attack which took place between Southend and Benfleet stations. They are all aged between 15 and 21.
Detectives are appealing for any witnesses who were travelling on the train to contact them with information.
In particular they are looking for a group of adults who were travelling on the train with children, including one woman of slim build with blonde hair, who was with a girl playing on a mobile games console.
"We have made good progress in building up a picture about what happened the night Michael was attacked and have made further arrests today," said British Transport Police Det Supt Ashley Croft.
"We believe there are still a number of significant witnesses who were travelling that evening who might be able to provide valuable information. It is very important they come forward and talk to us.
"Michael remains in a very serious condition and it is vital that we bring those responsible to justice."
Anyone with any information should contact BTP on 0207 391 5275 and quote reference B4/23/09/2009. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.