Victim of mugging dies three years later

Graham Murray, 38, was left severely disabled after being repeatedly stamped on by a 15-year-old in Osmondthorpe, Leeds, in 2008.

The youth, who has never been named, was locked up for four months on a charge of wounding.

Police are re-examining the case and awaiting medical evidence to see whether Mr Murray’s death is directly linked to the attack. Further charges could follow if a link is established.

Yesterday Mr Murray’s mother Janet said she yearned for justice for her only son.

She said: “No matter what I say I can never have my son back, but I just want some justice for him.

“I wish people who use such violence would realise the harm they are doing. Graham would never fight back, he was gentle.”

Mr Murray was attacked and robbed of his shopping as he walked in Osmondthorpe Lane on June 24, 2008.

He was taken to hospital but discharged himself after five hours. He went to the home he shared with his uncle and spent two days in bed. His speech was slurred but the extent of his injuries was not clear, said his mother. Days later he collapsed and was taken to Leeds General Infirmary.

Family members were told Mr Murray was in a deep coma with severe brain damage. He regained consciousness but was left paralysed and unable to speak and had to be fed through a tube.

He improved enough to be transferred to Chapel Allerton Hospital for rehabilitation. He made little progress and two years ago was taken for permanent nursing care. After months of intense work he was able to speak again.

He was able to recognise his family again but had to use a wheelchair and could not feed himself.

He developed a chest infection last month and died on September 17.