Friends and family to mark Ryan Passey's 29th birthday

Ryan, a popular footballer from Quarry Bank, was just 24 when he was knifed in the chest in the old Chicago’s nightclub in The Ryemarket in the early hours of August 6, 2017.The old Chicago's bar in Stourbridge and (inset) Ryan Passey (Image: Newsquest)

His heartbroken family has been campaigning for justice for Ryan, who played for Wren’s Nest FC in Dudley, ever since.

Dudley man Kobe Murray was charged with the murder of Ryan but he was acquitted after a trial on both murder and manslaughter charges by a jury at Birmingham Crown Court in 2018.

In November year, the Justice for Ryan campaign group brought a successful civil action against Murray, under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 and £10,000 was awarded to Ryan's family in damages.

Back - Adrian Passey (Ryan's dad), with Jason Connon (family friend), and front Ryan's mum Gillian Taylor, right, and step-dad Phil, left, at Liverpool Docks after the civil case in November 2021.

The family, however, said it was never about the money – they just want justice.

Meanwhile, they continue to celebrate Ryan’s life that was cut short too soon on key dates in the calendar.

Jason Connon, of the Justice for Ryan campaign, said: “Friday April 29 will mark Ryan’s 29th birthday and the family have arranged an event at The Raven pub - Ryan’s local - for people to come along and celebrate and remember Ryan.”

The event, dubbed a battle of the DJs bash, will include DJ sets and street food from 6pm to 11pm.

Meanwhile, West Yorkshire Police has begun a review of the case which was originally investigated by West Midlands Police.

Mr Connon said: “They spent a couple of days in our area and visited the former Chicago’s bar and other key locations.

"Their review team is now fully in place, including key experts assisting the team and they are currently going through West Midlands Police’s investigation.”