Tributes to 5 year old boy 'unlawfully killed' in Leicester

An inquest has been held into the death of Timotej Borrett

Author: Gavin RutterPublished 17th Dec 2024

A mum has paid tribute to her five-year-old son who “was always full of love” after an inquest hearing found that he was unlawfully killed.

Timotej Borrett died after being found unconscious at a property in Hopyard Close, Leicester, on Monday 24 July last year.

Timotej’s father Lee Borrett, 41 was also found unconscious at the scene. Lee Borrett was also later pronounced deceased at the scene.

Following a police investigation, an inquest hearing heard at Leicester Coroner’s Court today reached a conclusion that Timotej had been unlawfully killed. The inquest hearing reached a conclusion that Lee Borrett had taken his own life.

Paying tribute to her son following the hearing, Timotej’s mum Veronika Phillips said: “Our beloved Timotej was a light in our lives, full of curiosity, kindness, and wonder.

“At just five-years-old, he had a fascination with planets, often gazing at the stars and asking the most amazing questions. His love for countries and his ability to name over 180 flags amazed everyone who met him.

“Timotej had a heart so big it could hold the whole world—he was always sharing, always understanding, and always full of love. He will forever be our little explorer of the universe.”

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Sinski, senior investigating officer, said: “This has been a devastating, heartbreaking and incredibly traumatic incident and investigation. My thoughts remain with the families involved at this time and I thank them for their bravery and support during our enquiries and throughout the inquest hearing.

“My thanks also go to the response team and to the investigation team involved for your true professionalism and dedication in extremely difficult circumstances as well as to everyone who assisted our investigation to help find answers for the families involved. Thank you.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.