The devastated wife of a Keighley father-of-two has paid an emotional tribute as detectives continue to investigate his murder.
Suhail Choudry, 35, was found with serious head injuries on Flasby Street at 3.14am on Sunday 8 February. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition but died from his injuries on Wednesday 11 February.
His wife, Zara, who is expecting the couple’s third child, described the early morning phone call alerting her to the attack as the start of “days I could never have imagined”.
“Suhail was a father before anything – it was his proudest title and he was their world,” she said.
“Telling our children their daddy has passed away is something no mother should ever have to do. We will never find peace with the brutality in which he left us.
“I want to appeal today for any information, no matter how big or small, to please contact the police. Suhail deserves justice – not just for him, but for his daughter, son and unborn child.”
Detectives from West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team are leading the investigation under Operation Pandemus.
Officers believe Mr Choudry was chased and assaulted by a group armed with weapons, including bats and sticks, in the vicinity of East Avenue in what is described as a targeted attack. Two other men, aged 21 and 24, were also assaulted but did not suffer life-threatening injuries.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Matt Holdsworth said the family were “completely devastated” and that officers were determined to bring those responsible to justice.
“Our investigation remains in its early stages and we are working hard to build a fuller picture of the circumstances leading up to the attack,” he said.
“Enquiries suggest there were a number of other violent incidents in Keighley in the days prior which may be linked, and we are keen to hear from anyone with information about those.”
A 42-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder remains in police custody. Two men aged 27 and 30 arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on police bail pending further enquiries. A 33-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender is also on bail.
Scenes remain in place on Spencer Street and Parsons Street as forensic work continues, with increased patrols in the area to reassure residents.
Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage to come forward. Information can be submitted via the Major Incident Public Portal, by calling 101 quoting reference 13260077248 or Operation Pandemus, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Officers have acknowledged the concern the incident has caused within the wider community and say support from the public will be vital in securing justice for Suhail and his family.
