Special memorial for murdered teen Babacar Diagne as foster mum remembers boy who 'lived life to the fullest'

A special tribute is to be unveiled in the memory of a teenager murdered in Coventry. Babacar Diagne was just 15 when he was found stabbed on grassland off Petitor Crescent, Wood End, on the evening of February 5, 2020.

He was left for dead by three teenagers who went on to be jailed for life for his his senseless murder. Now, four years later, not only are tributes being paid to the teen that is 'missed' by so many, but also a special donation is being made to the city in his name.

"Babacar was caring and kind to everyone," said Shagufta Bano, Babacar's foster mum. "He was part of my family, even if it was for only a while.

READ MORE: Met Office issues new 30 hour rain warning as Coventry set for soaking

She continued: "He made me laugh. "He would always talk about the importance of health and how we have one life that we should live to the fullest. When we would go shopping he would encourage me to get the healthiest option and the best items for myself.

"He has impacted my life in a positive way as whenever I go shopping, I think about him. He is missed not only by me but my family too."

At the time of his death, Babacar was a foster child supported by his foster family and Foster Care Associates (FCA) based in the Midlands. To pay tribute to Babacar’s life, the youth council at FCA - made up of foster children in the local area - decided to raise money for a bleed kit to donate in the teen's name.

Now they have raised enough money to have one of the kits installed as part of the 'Safe Space’ initiative in Coventry, which aims to not only raise awareness about knife crime but have the potential to save a life.

A special commemoration is being held at 2pm Tuesday, May 28 at the Jubilee Crescent Community Centre in Radford. There will be attendees from FCA, Coventry City Council, West Mercia Police, and Jubilee Crescent Youth Centre and a commemorative event will be held after the bleed kit has been donated.

"Anyone who knew Babacar or would like to pay their respects is welcome," said a FCA spokesperson.

Sign up for our FREE daily newsletter here for all the latest news about Coventry.