Arthur Labinjo-Hughes’ grandmother cries as memorial balloons released
Tributes filled the sky at a vigil held in front of the murdered six-year-old’s former home
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The maternal grandmother of Arthur Labinjo-Hughes has been pictured crying as balloons were let loose to commemorate him.
Madeleine Halcrow, who was attending her grandson’s vigil Sunday, was seen wearing a t-shirt bearing a photograph of Arthur.
Ms Halcrow had been stopped from seeing her grandson since 2019 after he moved in with his father Thomas Hughes, 29, and stepmother Emma Tustin, 32.
Tustin, who was sentenced to life in prison on Friday, left Arthur with a fatal brain injury after she beat him, poisoned him with salt and starved him while he was in her sole care.
Hughes was also found guilty of manslaughter and jailed for 21 years for “encouraging” violence towards his son.
The vigil, organised by neighbour Kerry Vines, was held outside the address where Arthur was killed by Tustin.
A large crowd gathered on Cranmore Road in Solihull to let off balloons in tribute to the six-year-old boy.
The crowd clapped as balloons soared into the sky, some including strings of letters reading ‘Arthur.’ Attendees placed posters and drawings in front of the boarded-up property where Arthur lived. Some could be heard saying goodbye to the six-year-old.
A line formed outside the house before balloons, posters and flowers were placed around the property. The words “You are loved, Arthur“ were placed on the boarded-up windows.
A Birmingham City flag was also placed at the scene, alongside a picture of Arthur.
Additional reporting by PA
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments