Murder victim lived with 'purpose and heart'

An Indian man who was found in a critical condition and later died from his injuries has been described as being someone who lived with "purpose, passion and heart".

Vijay Kumar, 30, suffered serious injuries on Barbourne Road, Worcester, at about 04:15 GMT on 25 November.

West Mercia Police has confirmed five men were arrested on suspicion of murder and are now on bail as the investigation continues.

Mr Kumar left his government job to pursue higher education and arrived in the UK in January to study in Bristol, his brother, Ravi Kumar, told the BBC.

His family, who live in a small town in the northern state of Haryana, say they received a call on 25 November from a police official in the UK informing them that Mr Kumar was in a "critical condition".

Since then, they say they have been told that five people have been arrested, with no further details.

Mr Kumar says they later learnt of his brother's death from a friend in the UK.

"I request the Indian government to bring my brother's body to India. And I request the UK government to share details about how he died," he said.

Separately, in a statement, Mr Kumar's family said he "brought energy, joy and laughter and filled our lives with warmth".

They added: "Life was never dull with him around. Even in hard times, his spirit was unbreakable.

"Behind all his gestures was a heart that cared deeply for his family and friends.

"He didn't always say it, but he showed it - in small gestures, shared glances and unexpected kindness.

"Though his time with us was unbelievably short, it was filled with meaning. His tragic departure has left us devastated and has created a void in our lives."

In their tribute, the family continued by describing his death as "one of life's hardest things".

The statement concluded by saying they would miss Mr Kumar "deeply and carry his memory forward".

Detectives have urged anyone with information to get in touch as their investigations continue.

A spokesperson for UWE Bristol, where Mr Kumar was studying, said: "The university is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Vijay's death and would like to express our condolences to his family at this incredibly distressing time.

"We are in touch with Vijay's family and have offered them our full support. The university is also working with the police to support their ongoing investigation."

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